ERIC Number: ED636879
Record Type: Non-Journal
Publication Date: 2023
Pages: 155
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: 979-8-3798-4872-9
ISSN: N/A
EISSN: N/A
A Narrative Inquiry into the Neurodivergent Identity
Steven Butler
ProQuest LLC, Ed.D. Dissertation, California State University, Fresno
This research used narrative inquiry to explore the experiences of neurodivergent students on the autism spectrum during transition and enrollment into community college. Furthermore, the research examined the development of identity for this population during this time. Students are being diagnosed on the autism spectrum at increasing rates, and these students are more likely to enroll into a community college than another institution. These students transition from two distinct legislative policies that are designed to support students with disabilities in different ways. To explore this impactful period, the study sought to understand how the experiences influenced these students and their identities. The study included six interviews of three individuals that identify as on the autism spectrum. The initial interview determined baselines for research questions and developed rapport between interviewee and interviewer. During the second interview, the participants discussed in more depth topics from the first interview that closely related the research questions and direction. The interview resulted in main categories that represented themes throughout the interviews, including social and identity development obstacles for these students, like loss of social groups and difficulty interacting within college environments. Moreover, the study highlighted the differences and similarities of these individuals' experiences from differing identity development to similar social group experiences. The results signified a need for community colleges to improve their services in meaningful ways, including training and professional development for staff and faculty regarding neurodivergent students. Moreover, the move from compliance-oriented support and accommodations to focused development of social programming to support the transition from community and high school programming. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://bibliotheek.ehb.be:2222/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]
Descriptors: Autism Spectrum Disorders, College Enrollment, Student Adjustment, Student Experience, Community College Students, Self Concept, Students with Disabilities, Educational Legislation, Educational Policy, Interpersonal Relationship
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Publication Type: Dissertations/Theses - Doctoral Dissertations
Education Level: Higher Education; Postsecondary Education; Two Year Colleges
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A