Experiences of Formal and Informal Peer Supporters at a Japanese University

Higher education institutions in Japan are increasingly focused on supporting students with developmental disorders, but these individuals still face daunting challenges. Although research has demonstrated the positive effects of peer support on student socialization and academic performance, few studies have examined the perspectives or experiences of peer supporters. In this qualitative study at a medium-sized Japanese national public university, we conducted semi-structured interviews with five students employed by the school to provide formal, structured support, and seven students who provided informal, "natural" support to peers with autism spectrum disorder or attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. Results indicate that both groups of supporters perceived difficulties and benefits associated with their respective forms of support, and that higher education institutions need to provide more training and education to enhance supporters' understanding of developmental disorders, as well as supervision for students acting as supporters.