Lived Experience of Autistic, Gender-Diverse Adolescents: A Participatory Research Approach.
There is limited research and therefore knowledge around relevant societal issues which are important to the autistic community, including inaccurate perceptions of autistic individuals and gender identity. Emerging findings suggest that autistic, gender minority adolescents are at risk of being misunderstood in terms of their gender and gender needs. The current research project seeks to explore the lived experiences of adolescents who identify as autistic and gender-diverse. Particular focus shall be paid to adolescents’ perceptions and experiences of gender stereotypes. The research hopes to explore what enables adolescents to develop an authentic sense of self. Findings may help to identify potential barriers to gender-diverse inclusive practice for autistic adolescents, leading to a consideration of implications for a wide range of practitioners.
To truly explore identity and self-advocacy amongst gender-diverse adolescents, young people themselves must be the primary source of knowledge and respected as the experts of their own lives. I am therefore looking to recruit young people aged 11-17, who identify as autistic and gender-diverse. Participants can choose from a range of options to share their views and opinions in a manner that best suits them. Participants can also choose how many stages of the project they wish to take part in.
Stage 1 - completing an ‘Information and View Gathering Pack’, digitally or by hand
Stage 2 - an interview (online or in person) or a focus group (online or in person)
Stage 3 - in line with a participatory approach, participants are invited to collaborate in the data analysis process, via an online focus group or a feedback form
In recognition of their expertise, participants shall be compensated for their time, receiving gift vouchers up to the value of £40 (depending on the number and type of stages completed).
For further details, please contact the lead researcher, Carys Deeley, directly via email c.deeley@soton.ac.uk. Young people, under the age of 16, require a parent/carer to email on their behalf.
