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Understanding, attitudes and dehumanisation towards autistic people
Eilidh Cage1, Jessica Di Monaco1, Victoria Newell1
1Royal Holloway, University of London, UK.
Autism : the International Journal of Research and Practice
|November 23, 2018
Summary
Even with positive self-reports, non-autistic individuals may hold dehumanizing attitudes towards autistic people. This study found evidence of dehumanization, particularly a denial of human uniqueness, linked to openness towards autism.
Area of Science:
- Social Psychology
- Autism Spectrum Research
Background:
- Self-reported positive attitudes towards autism may mask underlying dehumanizing biases.
- Understanding non-autistic individuals' perceptions of autistic people is crucial for reducing stigma.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate knowledge, openness, and dehumanizing attitudes of non-autistic individuals towards autistic people.
- To explore the relationship between these attitudes and demographic factors.
Main Methods:
- Survey administered to 361 non-autistic participants.
- Measures included autism knowledge, openness, experience, and dehumanization.
Main Results:
- Autism knowledge levels were consistent with prior research.
- Females reported higher openness towards autism.
- Evidence of dehumanization was found, specifically a denial of human uniqueness traits.
- Dehumanization was correlated with openness towards autism.
Conclusions:
- Dehumanizing attitudes, particularly regarding human uniqueness, persist among non-autistic individuals.
- Findings highlight the need for interventions targeting these subtle biases to effectively reduce autism stigma.
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