Social media shaping autism perception and identity
Peer reviewed, Journal article
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Date
2024Metadata
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Abstract
The aim of this study was to explore how autistic adults experienced using social media to find information about autism, and how they experienced online autistic communities. There is little research on the rationale why autistic people look for information on autism via social media, and on how such information is perceived from an autistic viewpoint. Twelve Norwegian autistic adults (aged 18–49 years) completed semi-structured interviews where they discussed social media and content specifically about autism and online autistic communities. Using reflexive thematic analysis, three main themes were developed. The themes were (1) Representation and Identity: An Online Journey; (2) An Unreliable, but Necessary Tool; and (3) Tensions and Discord. The findings indicated that even though social media was looked upon as an unreliable information source, the participants found information that helped them to learn about their experiences which had not been fully captured by the majority of the current research literature and online health sites. Also, social media groups for autistic people did not necessarily create a sense of community, as participants reported feeling alienated by hostile discussions. This study highlights the importance of having a greater variation and availability of information about autism online through official health channels.