The Identification of Autistic Adults’ Perception of Their Own Diagnostic Pathway

A Research Dissertation Submitted for the Degree of Master of Autism at Sheffield Hallam University

This research investigates the processes of the identification of Autistic adults, with the view of many seeking a diagnosis being unaware of what the process entails or potential effects so as to make more informed decisions. Additionally, individuals who have been through these processes often do not have a benchmark with which to measure their experiences. This ethical research uses emancipatory and participatory methods, the literature review is rigorous, for example obtaining rare historical documents by Hans Asperger and Leo Kanner, whilst the research is within the framework of autism as a concept and how these have very real consequences for individuals and families to which this pertains. Many participants voiced their feelings of the need for further research particularly in the areas of identity and perception, with recognition that where neurological differences are present there needs to be different approaches to mental health as well as the importance of post-identification support.