“I Was Like a Bird Without Wings”: Autistic Women’s Retrospective Experiences in General Schools

Autistic individuals’ experience of the inclusion process is poorly understood, especially that of female pupils. This study retrospectively explored the views of autistic women who were included in general schools throughout childhood and adolescence, from elementary to high school, to understand their unique experiences and learn more about their needs in general schools. Semi-structured interviews were conducted, data were thematically analyzed, and key issues emerged pertaining to each educational level. The women described a complex journey within the general education system. Their responses highlight the need for greater attention to autistic females' patterns of behavior in research and practice. Implications and recommendations for educators and schools are provided, and directions for future research are outlined.