Invited Talk ESA-SRB-ANZOS 2025 in conjunction with ENSA

Choosing to Be Seen: Rethinking Autism Disclosure (123115)

Chris Edwards 1
  1. Autism Spectrum Australia (Aspect), Brisbane, QLD, Australia

Disclosure of an autism diagnosis or identity is a deeply personal decision that can shape an autistic person’s access to support, sense of safety, and experience of inclusion. Yet disclosure can also invite misunderstanding, stigma, or discrimination. This presentation draws on a program of co-produced research exploring the complexities of autism disclosure across contexts, methods, and identities, using innovative approaches such as social media analysis and experience sampling methodology (ESM). Findings from an analysis of over 3,000 social media posts revealed that autistic people often feel compelled to weigh the potential benefits of disclosure against widespread societal misunderstandings of autism—particularly in workplaces, healthcare, and interpersonal relationships. A second study demonstrated that disclosure is more likely among autistic adults who hold a strong sense of autistic or sexual identity, while other identity dimensions (e.g., ethnicity, gender) showed no clear association. Finally, a real-time ESM study captured 231 disclosure and nondisclosure experiences, highlighting how disclosure decisions are shaped by perceived contextual safety, anticipated energy costs, and the desire to be authentic, educate others, or advocate for change. Across these studies, one message is clear: disclosure is not a single, simple decision, but a continuous, complex negotiation. While often framed as a personal choice, our research supports a shift in focus toward systemic responsibility—creating environments where disclosure is safe, supported, and not always necessary for respect or inclusion. This talk will offer practical implications for educators, clinicians, and researchers interested in adopting neurodiversity-affirming practice and fostering inclusive environments where autistic people can thrive—whether or not they choose to disclose.