Exploring the benefits of participation in improv comedy for autistic adults
Keywords: improv, mental health, autism, Community, theatre.
Aim: Autistic improvisers (those engaged in improv comedy) are an under-researched population. This study explored their lived experiences and the impact of improv comedy for autistic, non-autistic neurodivergent, and neurotypical improvisers, focusing on the benefits of participation.
Method: This exploratory study used semi-structured interviews with 20 participants (50% autistic). The transcripts were analysed through Qualitative Content Analysis (QCA).
Results: Six themes emerged across all neurotypes, with another theme generated from the autistic improvisers’ interviews. These were 1) the personal importance of improv, 2) performance skills (improv, performance and comedy) and other platforms for use and development, 3) enabling me to roll with it and take risks, 4) (autistic improvisers only) I’ve gone full autistic (and can learn why NT are like they are), 5) it’s good for mental health, 6) for gaining social, communications, and collaboration skills, 7) it improved my quality of life. Divergence within themes were found.
Conclusion: Although divergence can be found within the themes, improvisers generally gain similar benefits. Autistic improvisers found a place they can be accepted. Neurotypical improvisers do not mention mental health benefits, and more about human connections.