Recognising Difference

A Neurodiversity-Affirming Poetic Autoethnography of Autism in Family Life

Abstract

This article examines one family’s evolving understanding of autism through a neurodiversity-affirming lens, informed by lived experience, poetic inquiry, and critical reflection. Positioned as both researcher and parent, I explore how my identification as autistic emerged alongside efforts to support my neurodivergent children, particularly my daughter, whose internalised distress was initially overlooked. Drawing on Poetic Autoethnography and Poetic Ethnography, I integrate original poetry, narrative, and scholarly insight to explore how identity, recognition, and advocacy are shaped within everyday family life. This work contributes to neurodivergent scholarship by foregrounding lived experiences and community-informed perspectives, advocating for inclusive and compassionate practices in education, parenting, and research.