The way of creating an indentity narrative within individuals with autism spectrum disorders

Abstract

Patients diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) represent a specific social group due to their difficulties while communicating with the environment. That can influence the way they construct their representation of Self. This qualitative study was conducted in order to find out the way in which people with ASD create their identity narrative. 8 interviews were conducted by implementing narrative techniques, for example: the narrative trigger “How would you describe yourself?”. As a result of the analysis, a distinction was made into 4 main thematic areas that can be considered key in constructing the narratives of the respondents: “Who am I?”, “What am I?”, “What influences who I am?” and “The meaning of life” based on the classification of Maria Straś-Romanowska (2016). The respondents often indicated the duality of their own identity, difficulties in contacts with others, but also positive factors, such as the need for usefulness and being part of the system. The moment of diagnosis was most often described as a turning point in their lives. The unique relationship with the respondents’ self seemed to be particularly reflected in their focus on interests or hobbies, which constituted an important thread in all interviews. Searching for the meaning of life and giving meaning to their actions seemed to be of great importance to them.