‘Being Autistic is Kind of Who You Are, It’s an Identity Rather than a Disorder’: Identity Negotiation and Construction Among Autistic Adults Diagnosed in Later Life

The purpose of this study is to address the gap in research concerning how identity is constructed and negotiated among individuals diagnosed with autism later in life. With the increasing number of adult autism diagnoses, it is crucial to understand the identity formulation process in these individuals to mitigate potential long-term impacts on mental health, well-being, and the acceptance of their autistic identity. This study employed a qualitative approach, involving eight autistic individuals who were diagnosed later in life. The participants’ experiences, understandings, and unique support needs were explored to gain insights into their identity development. Thematic analysis was utilized to identify recurring themes in the data, leading to the creation of a new identity framework. This framework was compared against the Cognitive Adaptation Model (1983), a widely used identity framework, to assess its relevance. The analysis identified significant themes, including the roles of social, formal, media, and peer support, in aiding late-diagnosed autistic individuals to embrace their autistic identity. The newly developed identity framework outlines the stages of identity development that these individuals experience post-diagnosis, highlighting the importance of various support systems in their journey. This study contributes to a deeper understanding of the identity formulation process in late-diagnosed autistic individuals, offering valuable insights for practitioners, mental health organizations, policymakers, and the general public. By promoting awareness of the unique identity development and support needs of this population, the study aims to improve services and support systems, ultimately helping late-diagnosed autistic individuals better accept and integrate their autistic identity.