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Constructing an autistic identity: AS voices online
Charlotte Brownlow1, Lindsay O'Dell
1Department of Psychology, London Metropolitan University, Old Castle St., London E1 7NT. C.Brownlow@londonmet.ac.uk
People with autism are finding their voice online, challenging traditional views. The internet empowers individuals with autism spectrum (AS) to share their experiences and shape discussions about identity and expertise.
Area of Science:
- Neurodevelopmental disorders
- Online communities and social interaction
- Autism spectrum research
Background:
- Traditional views often portray individuals with autism as unable to advocate for themselves.
- Online platforms offer new avenues for communication and self-expression for autistic individuals.
- The concept of "expert" knowledge in autism is often debated between scientific and experiential perspectives.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the experiences and perspectives of individuals with autism spectrum (AS) within online discussion groups.
- To identify key themes emerging from online interactions related to autism.
- To examine the role of the internet in empowering autistic voices and challenging existing narratives.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of excerpts from online discussion groups involving people with autism.
- Qualitative research approach focusing on identifying recurring themes.
- Examination of the interplay between "expert" scientific knowledge and lived experience.
Main Results:
- Two dominant themes emerged: "expert" knowledge of autism and identity.
- Online environments facilitate self-advocacy and provide a platform for autistic voices.
- Individuals with autism are actively shaping discussions about their experiences and identity.
- Experiential knowledge shared online challenges conventional scientific understanding of autism.
Conclusions:
- The internet serves as a powerful tool for amplifying the voices of individuals with autism spectrum (AS).
- Online communities foster a sense of identity and shared experience among autistic individuals.
- There is a significant value in recognizing and integrating experiential knowledge with scientific perspectives in autism research.
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