Reframing the past: What are the implications of a midlife ASD diagnosis for women's identity formation?

Pitt, Cheryl (2025) Reframing the past: What are the implications of a midlife ASD diagnosis for women's identity formation? In: British Psychological Society Division of Health Psychology Conference, 4th - 5th June 2025, Cardiff.

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Abstract

Abstract Purpose This qualitative study is based on the experiences of autistic women who received their diagnosis in middle adulthood. This study explores the ways in which these women reinterpret and make sense of their childhood and seek to make sense of themselves and their autistic identity post-diagnosis. The gender gap in autism diagnoses is well documented, and recent research continues to increase understanding about the female autistic phenotype. While research is beginning to explore the experiences of late diagnosed autistic women, little is known about the impact of late diagnosis on identity formation in older women. Methods Semi-structured interviews were conducted with three autistic women aged between 40-65, who had each received a diagnosis within the previous two years. Interviews took place online and were video recorded and transcribed. The data were analysed using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis and through a wider lens of identity development. Results Two interrelated themes were identified: a main theme, Making sense of autistic me, and a sub-theme, Masking. The women described lifelong feelings of difference, inadequacy, and invisibility, often coping through masking and self-concealment. Diagnosis in midlife acted as a turning point, prompting re-evaluation of earlier experiences and allowing a reframing of themselves. Gaining insight into their autistic experience allowed participants to reinterpret past struggles. Therefore, an internal attribution of blame and inadequacy for perceived failings shifted to an external reason, enabling them to make sense of themselves in a more positive and compassionate way. Conclusion Late diagnosis profoundly shapes self-understanding and identity reconstruction in autistic women. Middle adulthood offers a developmental recalibration, enabling meaning-making of lifelong difference amid masking. These findings emphasise the need for gender-aware diagnostic practices and their role in fostering psychological well-being and coherent identity

Item Type:	Conference or Workshop Item (Poster)
Keywords:	autism, late diagnosis, female autistic phenotype, identity, middle adulthood
Divisions:	College of Health and Society > Psychology and Criminology
Depositing User:	Research and Knowledge Exchange Office Admin 1
Date Deposited:	27 May 2025 14:34
Last Modified:	26 May 2026 10:06
URI:	https://bnu.repository.guildhe.ac.uk/id/eprint/19988

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