Autistic women’s experiences of self-compassion after receiving their diagnosis in adulthood

Added on 28/07/2024

Type de contenu

Journal article of the type Scientific research ( ; english)

Rosemarie Wilson , Andrew Thompson , Georgina Rowse , Richard Smith , Amber-Sophie Dugdale , Megan Freeth
Autistic women’s experiences of self-compassion after receiving their diagnosis in adulthood n°27, vol.5, 12 pages , doi: 10.1177/13623613221136752

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Summary/Presentation

Knowledge of autistic individuals’ experiences of self-compassion is very limited. This study investigated autistic women’s experiences of self-compassion after receiving their diagnosis in adulthood. Eleven autistic women completed semi-structured interviews analysed using interpretative phenomenological analysis. Three super-ordinate themes were identified: ‘Disconnect between the autistic self and experience of societal expectations’ (the burden of conformity; autism is misunderstood; social challenges; mental health impact); ‘Unmasking: the process of self-understanding’ (autonomy and self-compassion; validation and grief) and ‘Impact on relationships’ (diagnosis disclosure dilemmas; connection and understanding). Frustration with society’s misconceptions of autism and unhelpful thinking styles were presented as barriers to self-compassion. Most participants reported that their diagnosis had led to the development of a greater sense of self-understanding, which facilitated self-compassion. Some participants suggested their own increased understanding of autism facilitated their compassion towards others. Findings from this study have clinical implications for increasing understanding about autistic women’s experiences of self-compassion and possibly ways to facilitate its development, to enhance well-being.

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(3) Authors whose names are followed by an asterisk have publicly disclosed being autistic.

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