The Social Experiences of Autistic People of Color: A Qualitative Study
Open Access DepositedThis study used a basic interpretive design to explore the social experiences of autistic People of Color within the frameworks of the social model of disability, intersectionality, and disability critical race theory. The implications of these frameworks meant that the study used identity-first language throughout to resist the narrative that disabilities are something to be ashamed of, the multiple aspects of participants’ identities were respected and accounted for throughout the study, and the voices and experiences of participants were at the heart of the study. Participants included nine autistic adults from varying racial backgrounds and gender identities. Interviews and artistic activities were used to better understand factors that promote and prohibit strong social connections for autistic People of Color. The results of this study pointed to neurotypical expectations, being misunderstood, and complex school experiences as barriers to forming social connections for participants. Some of these difficulties were explicitly related to autism, while others were connected to other parts of participants’ identities, such as their gender identity or sexual orientation. Many of those involved in the study have overcome these obstacles and now have people who accept, understand, and support them. In addition to acceptance, understanding, and support, being able to relate also influenced the friendships and other social connections that participants formed. This current study differed from previous studies as the results did not suggest that participants preferred homophilic friendships with other autistic individuals or otherwise believed that another autistic person would be an ideal friend. Participants emphasized their current and desired friends’ values and personality traits more than they described their disability, race, gender, or other identifier. This study was one small step in learning more about this underrepresented population. It demonstrated that there is much more to learn about the social experiences of autistic People of Color. This study contributes to the existing body of literature and the autism community by providing preliminary information about this topic and elevating the voices of autistic People of Color whose perspectives have been missing from the conversation for far too long.
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