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The 'not guilty verdict': psychological reactions to a diagnosis of Asperger Syndrome in adulthood

Punshon, C, Skirrow, P, Murphy, Glynis H. (2009) The 'not guilty verdict': psychological reactions to a diagnosis of Asperger Syndrome in adulthood. Autism, 13 (3). pp. 265-283. ISSN 1362-3613. (doi:10.1177/1362361309103795) (The full text of this publication is not currently available from this repository. You may be able to access a copy if URLs are provided) (KAR id:32251)

The full text of this publication is not currently available from this repository. You may be able to access a copy if URLs are provided.
Official URL:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1177/1362361309103795

Abstract

Asperger syndrome is a relatively new diagnostic classification. A number of factors make receiving a diagnosis of Asperger syndrome in adulthood a unique experience. This study used a phenomenological approach to examine the experiences of 10 adults receiving such a diagnosis. Results suggested that six major themes were associated with receiving a diagnosis of Asperger syndrome. Individuals discussed their negative life experiences and their experience of services prior to diagnosis, which led to individuals holding certain beliefs about the symptoms of Asperger syndrome. These beliefs had an effect on the formation of each individual's perceived self-identity. Participants made links between how they felt when they received the diagnosis and their current beliefs about both their 'symptoms' and themselves. Finally, participants highlighted the importance of the societal view of Asperger syndrome. The implications of these findings are reappraised in the context of previous research and the wider literature on identity formation.

Item Type: Article
DOI/Identification number: 10.1177/1362361309103795
Uncontrolled keywords: adults; Asperger syndrome; diagnosis experience; identity formation
Subjects: H Social Sciences > HV Social pathology. Social and public welfare > HV1568 Disability studies
Divisions: Divisions > Division for the Study of Law, Society and Social Justice > School of Social Policy, Sociology and Social Research > Tizard
Depositing User: Jo Ruffels
Date Deposited: 03 Dec 2012 10:45 UTC
Last Modified: 16 Nov 2021 10:10 UTC
Resource URI: https://kar.kent.ac.uk/id/eprint/32251 (The current URI for this page, for reference purposes)

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