ERIC Number: EJ1262076
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2020-Aug
Pages: 15
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-0162-3257
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Available Date: N/A
'Conflict versus Congruence': A Qualitative Study Exploring the Experience of Gender Dysphoria for Adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder
Coleman-Smith, Rachel S.; Smith, Richard; Milne, Elizabeth; Thompson, Andrew R.
Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders, v50 n8 p2643-2657 Aug 2020
An emergent evidence base indicates a higher prevalence of autism exists amongst people attending gender identity clinics. This qualitative study explored adults' with autism experiences of coming to understand and address their gender dysphoria (GD). Data were collected and analysed using Grounded Theory. Ten adults with autism and GD undertook semi-structured interviews. A tentative theoretical framework of common processes involved in understanding and addressing GD for individuals with autism was developed. The experience is captured in the core category--"Conflict versus Congruence." A key finding was the impact of autism as a barrier but sometimes a protective factor in participants' understanding and addressing GD. Participants appeared to achieve greater personal congruence and wellbeing upon transition. Nevertheless, conflicts remained as they navigated the social world with a continuing fear of hostility and sense of difference due to having two stigmatised identities.
Descriptors: Adults, Autism, Pervasive Developmental Disorders, Sexual Identity, Self Concept, Congruence (Psychology), Well Being, Fear
Springer. Available from: Springer Nature. 233 Spring Street, New York, NY 10013. Tel: 800-777-4643; Tel: 212-460-1500; Fax: 212-348-4505; e-mail: customerservice@springernature.com; Web site: https://link-springer-com.bibliotheek.ehb.be/
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research; Tests/Questionnaires
Education Level: N/A
Audience: N/A
Language: English
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