“I Have Tried to Fit In,but I Just Want to Be Me”: Development Toward Identity Formation in Young Autistic Adults

Abstract

Background:

Research increasingly focuses on how autistic individuals use different strategies to adapt to their social environment. Awareness about how these strategies could impact well-being is essential. In this study, we aimed to explore the developmental perspective of social strategies and identity formation from childhood to young adulthood among young autistic adults.

Methods:

Participants were initially recruited in 2009 when diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder at Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) centers in one region of Norway (M_age = 12 years). For this follow-up study, 14 participants agreed to take part in individual in-depth, semistructured interviews conducted ∼12 years later. We applied reflexive thematic analysis to the interview material.

Results:

From the analysis of the interviews, we identified one overarching theme: I have tried to fit in, but I just want to be me: Development toward agency. The overarching theme represents an ongoing process of agency, tied to three main themes. Participants reported functioning differently in social situations throughout development (Theme 1) when compared with non-autistic peers. Consequently, they reflected on helpful strategies (Theme 2) that they found beneficial in navigating the social world. Gradually, the participants developed identity formation toward acceptance of being different (Theme 3).

Conclusion:

This study highlights the complexity of social interaction and self-perception in autism. Participants recognized their unique ways of interacting and used various strategies to fit in. Growing older, they became more self-aware and preferred social situations that met their needs for predictability, quiet environments, and routines. Interestingly, participants did not always view autism as a core part of their identity. This suggests that autistic adults may be more satisfied in acknowledging and appreciating their differences rather than trying to fit into conform identities. Our findings highlight the need to encourage strategies that promote well-being and individuality as autistic individuals become adults.

Community Brief

Why is this an important issue?

Autistic individuals sometimes struggle with social situations. Such struggles can impact how one views oneself. Therefore, it is important to get insight into how autistic people understand themselves based on their social experiences.

What was the purpose of this study?

We wanted to find out how young autistic adults experience social situations and how social experiences shape their understanding of themselves and their identity.

What did the researchers do?

We developed interview questions with help from the Norwegian Autism Society and through a collaboration between autistic and non-autistic researchers. Then, we individually interviewed 14 autistic adults between 21 and 29 years. We asked them about their experiences with social situations from childhood to early adulthood.

What were the results?

The young autistic adults described feeling different from others since childhood. This feeling lasted into early adulthood but was not necessarily negative. Even though they felt a bit different from others, our participants did not always describe autism as a central part of their identity. As they aged, they became more aware of their needs and strengths. They described routines, support from close friends and family, and creating predictable social settings as helpful.

What do these findings add to what was already known?

The findings from our interviews show that autistic adults may see themselves as different. Rather than trying to be “typical,” our participants accepted their differences. In early adulthood, they learned which social situations met their needs for predictability, quiet environments, and routines. This focus on finding what works best suggests that autistic adults might be happier when they accept and appreciate their differences instead of trying to fit specific labels.

What are potential weaknesses in the study?

We have based our findings on interviews with a small number of young autistic adults without intellectual disability who could participate in verbal interviews. All participants were diagnosed with autism in childhood and live in Norway. Most participants were men. Because we studied this specific group, our results may not apply to the broader autistic population. Still, this study can help us with a deepened understanding of and give us new ideas for research on autistic people in different situations and with varying skills.

How will these findings help autistic adults now or in the future?

Our findings show that feeling different can be a good thing. Even though not everyone wants to identify mainly as autistic, autistic adults may embrace their differences and feel good about themselves with others. Our findings also share helpful strategies. These include meeting friends in quiet, predictable places, having routines, and getting support from loved ones. Hearing about these strategies may help other autistic adults find their way to socialize. Our findings also offer valuable advice for those helping autistic adults. Professionals, friends, and family should be open-minded about how autistic adults prefer to socialize and support them in exploring their identity.