Researchers are often interested in how individuals with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) differ from those without on cognitive and perceptual tasks. We examined a different way to analyze results from these tasks, using computational models, and found that they better described differences between adolescents with and without ASD than standard measures. One potential application of these findings is the development of more targeted training paradigms in the future.

BACKGROUND: Persistent Postural-Perceptual Dizziness (PPPD) is a chronic neuro-vestibular condition characterised by subjective dizziness, non-spinning vertigo, and postural imbalance. Symptoms are typically induced by situations of visuo-vestibular conflict and intense visual-motion. OBJECTIVE: Little research has focused on the lived experiences of people with PPPD. Therefore, our objective was to present an in-depth exploration of patient experiences and sense-making, and the effect of PPPD on psycho-social functioning. METHODS: We conducted semi-structured interviews with 6 people with PPPD, who were recruited from an Audiovestibular department in Wales. We present a case-by-case Interpretive Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) for each participant and present common themes. RESULTS: Our analysis revealed a range of superordinate and subordinate themes, individualised to each participant, but broadly described under the following headings: dismissal and non-belief, identity loss, dissociative experiences, poor psychological well-being and processes of sense-making. CONCLUSION: The qualitative experiences documented in this study will help clinicians and researchers to better understand the lived experiences of PPPD, how PPPD patients make sense of their symptoms, and the psycho-social impacts of the condition.

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