Defining Autistic Flourishing: Exploring Lived Experiences through a Neurodivergent Lens

Abstract

Autism has historically been conceptualized in ways that exclude the possibility of flourishing or a “good life.” However, shifts in our understanding of autism, alongside a more recent discourse driven primarily by the voices of autistic people, have highlighted that many autistic people can flourish according to their subjectively determined standards. The application of neuronormative ideas of what it means to live a good life is increasingly challenged. This study, led by neurodivergent researchers, examines autistic flourishing from the perspective of autistic adults. This co-produced phenomenological study sought to explore autistic perspectives on flourishing. We interviewed a total of 29 autistic adults one to four times each, either through focus groups, individual oral interviews, or written responses. We analyzed the interview data using qualitative reflexive thematic analysis. Participants described their definitions of flourishing, both short and long terms. They included personal growth, connection, and self-determination, as well as opportunities for experiencing pleasure. Based on the insights of autistic adults, we understand autistic flourishing as a dynamic phenomenon that unites long-term growth and autonomy with short-term experiences of mental, physical, or holistic enjoyment. Autistic flourishing means engaging with the world in one’s own autistic way, not adapting to neuronormative standards. It should not be conflated with neurotypical flourishing, as this weakens its meaning. It should be explored how support can nurture autistic ways of being, rather than push for conformity with neuronormative expectations.