How much of my true self can i show? social adaptation in autistic women: a qualitative study.

Researchers interviewed 10 autistic women about how they handle social situations. They found that these women try to fit in based on past negative experiences, focusing on keeping relationships stable and meeting social expectations. The study suggests that instead of asking autistic people to change, society should create more accepting environments where autistic women can be themselves.

This qualitative study explored how autistic women perceive social adaptation through interviews with ten women aged 28-50. Using grounded theory analysis, researchers identified two core themes: maintaining stable relationships and fulfilling social roles based on past experiences of 'maladaptation.' Participants sought adaptations within reasonable limits to maintain daily life stability. Findings revealed that autistic women's adaptation strategies were shaped by accumulated negative experiences. The study emphasizes the importance of environmental change rather than requiring autistic individuals to modify themselves, and highlights the need for spaces where autistic women can be accepted authentically.

Supports environmental modifications over individual adaptation training. Emphasizes need for trauma-informed care approaches. Highlights importance of creating accepting spaces for authentic self-expression. Suggests support should focus on client choice and self-determination rather than conformity to neurotypical standards.

Small sample size of 10 participants limits generalizability. Single qualitative study design prevents broader population inferences. Age range (28-50) may not represent experiences across all life stages. No comparison with male perspectives or non-autistic controls provided.

Social adaptation is often aimed at supporting autistic people, yet its specific goals may not include their actual perspectives. That is, the state of adaptation is judged based on the standards and values of non-autistic people. This qualitative study focused on autistic women's perceptions of social adaptation and examined their lived experiences in daily life, as adaptive behaviors have often been reported as a "female autism phenotype." Semi-structured interviews were conducted face-to-face with ten autistic women aged 28-50 years (M = 36.7; standard SD = 7.66). The analysis was conducted based on the grounded theory approach.

Two core perceptions were identified: maintaining stable relationships and fulfilling social roles based on past experiences of "maladaptation." The participants sought adaptations within a reasonable range and adjusted their balance with society to maintain stability in their daily lives. The findings indicated that autistic women's perceptions of adaptation were based on the accumulation of past negative experiences. Further harmful efforts should be prevented. Support for autistic people to make their own choices in life is also important.

Moreover, autistic women need a place where they can be themselves and be accepted as they are. This study showed the importance of changing the environment rather than modifying autistic people to adapt to a society.