The loss of Asperger Syndrome: An exploration of its effects on self-identity
Abstract
In the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5), Asperger Syndrome (AS) has been eliminated and integrated into a new Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) diagnostic framework. The loss of AS has social implications for people who self-identify and derive personal meaning from their diagnosis. The current study explored the opinions of adults with AS regarding the identity terms related to the changing classification of ASD. A qualitative approach was adopted whereby 12 participants each completed a semi-structured interview that was transcribed and analyzed via Thematic Analysis. The data revealed six themes: 1) Derived Meaning, 2) Knowledge and Understanding, 3) Perceptions and labels, 4) Social Identity, 5) Opinions and Reactions to ASD, and 6) Barriers to Funding and Service Provision. Overall, the results from the current study have practical utility for the AS community, families, and professionals, and will form the basis of future research.
Description
Keywords
Educational Psychology, Education--Social Sciences, Psychology--Developmental, Psychology--Social
Citation
Huynh, S. (2017). The loss of Asperger Syndrome: An exploration of its effects on self-identity (Master's thesis, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada). Retrieved from https://prism.ucalgary.ca. doi:10.11575/PRISM/28239