UK Regional Network
AutOnoME examines how neurodivergent gender minority young adults experience online spaces; specifically, it looks at how they navigate and negotiate online technologies and spaces. This study seeks to learn how these young people, both gender- and neuro-divergent, engage and use online spaces including gaming, social media, messaging platforms.
There is some evidence that autistic people are more likely to identify outside of binary gender categories (Strang et al., 2014). In addition, autistic individuals are significantly more likely to identify as non-heterosexual (George & Stokes, 2018; Weir et al., 2021). We know that some young people with autism or autistic spectrum disorder are are ‘technologically savvy’ (Alper, 2014). These links support the need for a study of this type to better understand the online lives and experiences of gender and neurodivergent young people.
Recruitment is now closed.
We are no longer seeking participants. Thank you for your interest!
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Methodology
This study uses photo elicitation in qualitative interviews. Photo elicitation is used to generate discussion through art selected and/or created by researchers or participants. This approach can increase engagement and help address concerns about the need to seek the perspectives of autistic GMY when examining their experiences. Previous studies suggest the use of visual methods reduces ASD young adult research participation anxiety whilst providing tangible memory recall prompts and aiding communication.
This study seeks to answer the following research questions:
How do neurodivergent and/or autistic gender minority youth navigate and negotiate online technologies and spaces?
How do neurodivergent and/or autistic gender minority youth use ICT in relation to gender identity?
How applicable is intersectional theory to neurodivergent and/or autistic gender minority youth, and can it help us understand GMY online lives?
This study has ethics approval from Anglia Ruskin University's ethics board (reference PSY-S19-018). Questions can be directed to Dr. Jason Schaub.