“Jag började snegla på omgivningens beteenden, hur skulle man vara för att smälta in?” : En kvalitativ studie om kvinnor med autism och deras hanteringsstrategier i sociala sammanhang

Sammanfattning: The study examines the experiences of autism and the strategies women with autism use to bridge the socio-communicative difficulties that autism may result in. The investigated material consists of autobiographical books written by women with an autism diagnosis. The method used is a qualitative content analysis, focusing on the manifest content. The result is discussed in relation to norms and normality and to hide stigma with the help of Goffman's theories on stigma and dramaturgical perspectives. The study shows that women use different strategies to mask their autistic difficulties. It also suggests that women use camouflage to reach up to the expectations and standards that are in interaction with neurotypical people. The study also shows that there is a downside to using a masking method. To constantly hiding their true self to others can lead to stress, psychological distress and confusion about their identity. Furthermore, the study shows that the use of strategies is based on an internal and external pressure to fit into social contexts.