A transdisciplinary scoping review of social identity among African youths with autism

Abstract

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is an evolving concept in the neurodiversity community. There is now a continuum of views ranging from biological through social models of which the medical model views ASD as pathological rather than atypical and the social model views disability as arising from the obstacles faced by individuals in societies. This qualitative study used the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) to interrogate evidence on variations in social identity among youths with ASD living in Africa.¹ Seventeen studies were reviewed from twelve databases. Inclusion criteria were studies on ASD in Africa published in English between 2019–2024. Data were thematically analysed following a single approach. Results organised by themes indicated that youths with ASD in Africa: (1) were stigmatised and discriminated (2) have limited access to resources (3) are socially excluded and (4) have low self-esteem. The study’s findings suggest that ASD in Africa still holds more of a negative identity.

Transdisciplinary contribution: The use of different studies in this study allowed integration of views, methods and information from a variety of disciplines. A detailed understanding of how youth with ASD aged 12 years–35 years negotiate their social situations and establish identities across varied in their cultural contexts is made possible by this comprehensive approach. This also facilitated the identification of research gaps and advocates for comprehensive interventions that acknowledge the distinct social realities faced by African youths with ASD.