CAHSCR Seminar Series - Exploring the experiences of transgender adults with intellectual disabilities and/or are autistic

Time: 12.00pm - 1.00pm
Price: free
Speaker(s): Daniel Marsden, Dr Mark Brown, Marina Russ, Lorne Power, Dr Celayne Heaton-Shrestha

Exploring the experiences of transgender adults with intellectual disabilities and/or are autistic, by Daniel Marsden, Dr Mark Brown, Marina Russ, Lorne Power, Dr Celayne Heaton-Shrestha

Background

Evidence indicates that there are elevated rates of autistic traits and other neurodevelopmental conditions in the population of trans people and that these cohorts are more likely to experience barriers and restrictions to the expression of anything other than normative cisgender identity. Evidence exists as to the life experiences of autistic people, however, this was not the case for people with intellectual disabilities.

Aim

This study sought to understand the intersectional experiences of trans autistic people and/or people with intellectual disabilities in the UK relating to health, care and education.

Design

This study used interpretative phenomenological analysis to analyse four semi-structured interviews.

Findings

Interviews were conducted with people in their 30s with a mixture of abilities and genders. Five themes were constructed, related to the participant's journey while further analysis provides a set of strategies that could support others undertaking a similar journey and a set of recommendations for service providers.

Family plays an important role in the participants' journey, however, these experiences were variable as such alternative support systems play a vital part in the process. Those working in Health, Care and Education will benefit from intellectual disability and autism education that includes a greater examination and consideration of gender diversity.

For further information about this event:

Contact: Nathalie Leung
Email: y.k.leung@kingston.ac.uk