Self – Regard of Individuals with Autism – How People from the Autism Spectrum Perceive Autism. A Netnographic Research

This research on adults with a diagnosis of autism is a multidirectional and multistage analysis. It is aimed at reviewing the current knowledge about the disorder as well as taking optimal actions towards social inclusion for people with ASD (autistic spectrum disorder). The research and analysis was facilitated by selecting subjects who have sufficient communication and social skills to be able to participate in the study. The new DSM 5, which now has descriptors of CTS (Conflict Tactics Scale) degrees, was useful for this purpose. Data was gathered by means of personalized forms and methods, with in-depth netnographic (rather than face-to-face) interviews conducted. As no similar research using the netnographic method could be found, a pilot study was initiated, which was then gradually expanded to include a larger number of respondents. This research made it possible to record the views of people with ASD regarding autism and their functioning in society.