Through our eyes: Understanding how autistic children co-author a sense of self and relate to the world. An interpretative, observational thematic analysis

Identity development is often viewed as co-constructed within social contexts. Much research focuses on older childhood, despite early childhood being considered critical in the formation of ‘self’. Creative methodologies (i.e., those that might utilise creative mediums and the senses such as audio-visual stimuli or play), drawing upon attachment, narrative and systemic theory, and interpretative, observational thematic analysis were utilised to explore child meaning-making in the context of autism. Participant understanding of self often related to a sense of ‘difference’ and desire for belonging and acceptance. Development of creative, sensitive, applied methods has advanced methodological approaches for working with vulnerable populations. This study demonstrates that experiences of parental perspectives and interactions are connected to children contextualising their experiences of self, other, and the world around them in some capacity. As such, it is important to provide parents with the tools, knowledge, and understanding to aid the development of positive narratives to provide the best support for their children