PhD research in Social Policy
School of Sociology, Social Policy and Social Research
University of Kent
"Trauma, support and identity among late diagnosed autistic women with significant trauma experiences"
Research background
As a researcher, I am committed to understanding the unique challenges faced by late diagnosed autistic women who have experienced significant trauma, such as gender-based violence and sexual assault. My work is driven by a desire to understand how individuals reclaim their sense of self, identity and authentic autistic self with greater understanding of the impact of trauma. By gathering data and insights through careful research, I hope to contribute to the wider conversation around trauma and identity, and provide recommendation in areas where support is insufficient.
This research explores life history and narrative expressions of autistic life experiences. It will contribute to an emerging understanding on the consequences of living with various forms trauma as an autistic woman. The primary aim is to increase visibility of autistic voices, improve understanding of the impacts of trauma for us as a marginalised group and consider this issue beyond medicalised deficit-based approaches to autism. It will consider to what extent perspectives on trauma change following a late autism diagnosis and potential identity re-alignment. Its proposed contribution will be to increase understanding of ways to improve trauma-focused support. This research is participatory and co-produced, as I am also a late diagnosed autistic woman with personal experience of trauma. The methodology is narrative life story interviews and I am utilising inductive, thematic analysis.
How to Participate
Consent form
Please click here to view and complete the consent form. Ensure you are fully comfortable with the participant information sheet prior to completion of this consent form and feel free to ask any questions
Eligibility
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Be aged 25 years or over
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Have received a diagnosis or self-identify as autistic in adulthood
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Female, or identify/live as a woman
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Have experienced forms of gender-based trauma
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Have received some form of trauma support (for safeguarding)
Current emerging themes based on initial pilot research
