Autism Through an Autistic Lens: A Photovoice Exploration of Autistic Adults’ Experiences in Navigating Perceived and Internalized Stigma

Abstract

Background: Internalised stigma happens when people incorporate negative stereotypes into their self-concept. In research, some autistic people have shown internalised stigma, which has been associated with heightened psychological distress. Aligned with autistic peoples’ research priorities, this study investigated the impact of stigma and internalised stigma on autistic people’s lives and identities. Methods: We used Photovoice method, where people communicate lived experience by taking photographs, and techniques of Interpretive Phenomenological Analysis, which focuses on in-depth individual narratives. Findings: Our findings emphasise the relational nature of stigma, highlighting autistic people’s resourcefulness in responding to and managing stigma in complex and context-sensitive ways. Autistic participants also drew on their focused interests and creative expression to actively resist and counter experiences of stigma. Conclusion: Future research should focus on targeting stigma amongst non-autistic people, and in exploring autistic people’s focused interests and creativity as potential avenue for improving their wellbeing and fostering a positive identity.