Autistic women’s experiences of self-compassion after receiving their diagnosis in adulthood

Knowledge of autistic individuals’ experiences of self-compassion is very limited. This study investigated autistic women’s experiences of self-compassion after receiving their diagnosis in adulthood. Eleven autistic women completed semi-structured interviews analysed using interpretative phenomenological analysis. Three super-ordinate themes were identified: ‘Disconnect between the autistic self and experience of societal expectations’ (the burden of conformity; autism is misunderstood; social challenges; mental health impact); ‘Unmasking: the process of self-understanding’ (autonomy and self-compassion; validation and grief) and ‘Impact on relationships’ (diagnosis disclosure dilemmas; connection and understanding). Frustration with society’s misconceptions of autism and unhelpful thinking styles were presented as barriers to self-compassion. Most participants reported that their diagnosis had led to the development of a greater sense of self-understanding, which facilitated self-compassion. Some participants suggested their own increased understanding of autism facilitated their compassion towards others. Findings from this study have clinical implications for increasing understanding about autistic women’s experiences of self-compassion and possibly ways to facilitate its development, to enhance well-being.