Parental experiences of having a child socially transition Version 1
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Parental experiences of having a child with ASD socially transition to their preferred gender
IRAS ID
235238
Contact name
Georgina Harwood
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Salomons Centre for Applied Psychology, Canterbury Christ Church University
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 2 months, 28 days
Research summary
Research suggests that young people with Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD) are more likely to experience gender variance, with prevalence rates of ASD among child/adolescent referrals for gender identity issues being approximately ten times higher than in the general population (e.g. de Vries et al., 2010). Brill and Pepper (2008) define a social transition as the time period in which the child outwardly changes gender (name, hairstyle and clothing) within various social contexts. The clinical aspects of ASD may generate differences in approach to social transitions, for instance the young person may socially transition very quickly without awareness of the implications for their future and other people's perceptions.
The aim of this research is to explore the experience of parents who have a child aged 11-18 with a diagnosis of ASD, who has made a social transition to their preferred gender. Parents are likely to have different experiences and perceptions of social transitions and the challenges that it may create for themselves and their family. The knowledge that we could gain from their experience may improve our understanding of social transitions, and how professionals can best support young people and their families through this complex process.
This research will employ qualitative methodology, specifically Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) which focuses on subjective meaning and how people make sense of their experiences (Smith, Flowers & Larkin, 2009). 8-10 participants will be recruited via the Gender Identity Development Service (GIDS). An advert will be displayed on the website and in the waiting area. Clinicians will identify potential participants and give them an introductory letter and information sheet. If they decide to participate, they will take part in a semi-structured interview at the GIDS which will last no longer than 90 minutes. This research is funded by Canterbury Christ Church University.
REC name
London - Central Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
18/LO/0130
Date of REC Opinion
22 Feb 2018
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion