Mary Peachey and Laura Crane (2024)

https://doi.org/10.1089/aut.2023.0071

Insider knowledge production: The study was led by a non-binary autistic researcher who engaged 5 participants in interviews.  These interviews were analysed in the context of a larger consultancy group of 18 autistic adults. Experiences were considered using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA).

Participants shared perceptions of gender as an internal feeling, shaped in interaction with others, and reflected on society’s fixation with a binary system. This opens up conversations on the complexity of gender identity.

‘Where do I belong?’

Participants expressed feelings of discomfort within their own skin and a struggle with the everything-or-nothing nature of gender presentation. It was felt that being autistic made it more difficult to explore gender presentations. 

(Re)framing Difference.

Difficulties in self-acceptance and pressures to mask autistic traits hindered the embrace of positive identities. Yet, later in life, the freedom to reject binary norms could occur in which sexuality was a sense-making tool.

Space to be (neuro)queer.

Connection to those who understand and accept is validating.  But more often interactions are plagued by painful and uncomfortable misunderstandings. Some described how they policed their identity, using simple non-binary labels rather than more accurate micro-labels. 

The study found no impairment in comprehending gender among participants. Instead, it suggests that societal barriers limit access to queer discourse. Emphasising the need for expressive language to construct identity through connection.

Research like this underscores the critical role of participatory approaches, listening to and valuing autistic voices in exploring the intersection of autism and gender. It’s a call to expand our understanding and support the diversity of identities within the autistic community.