Stranded at the intersection of gender, sexuality, and autism: gray’s story

Abstract

In this study we examine the life story of Gray, an individual who identifies as having both a non-binary gender identity and autism spectrum disorder (ASD). We argue that Gray’s story of transitioning from female to male and then detransitioning to a non-binary identity is unique and presents a counter to the more typical stories of transitioning individuals. We utilized a life story narrative protocol with an intersectional theoretical framework in order to examine how Gray’s different identities have intersected, evolved, and entangled throughout their life. We found that Gray’s story is a complex web from which they have made decisions concerning their gender identity and plans to transition and detransition, which we argue can inform the way researchers examine gender identity and how it interacts with ASD and other identity markers. We further wish to acknowledge that this topic is rife with tension, and we do not wish to portray a trans-exclusionary study or say that gender dysphoria is related to mental illness or disability. Points of Interest The gender binary of man and woman does not work for all individuals. Gray spoke openly about their experiences with various aspects of disability. This theme is comprised of three sub themes which each act as a piece of Gray’s puzzle. These sub themes are autism, medical issues, and mental health. For Gray, ASD is an imperative aspect of their individual responses to various situations throughout their life story. The connection between their identity as a person with ASD and with a non-binary identity is powerful. Gray's story is complex. It helps us understand how gender identity and autistic identity can affect each other.