Autorytet jako wsparcie czy przeszkoda? Doświadczenia kobiet w spektrum autyzmu w relacjach społecznych
Authority as Support or Obstacle? Experiences of Women on the Autism Spectrum in Social Relationships

Summary/Abstract: Women on the autism spectrum navigate social and institutional relationships in which authority plays a significant role. Previous research often focuses on clinical differences and adaptive strategies, but there is a lack of studies analyzing the experiences of women in relation to authority. The objective of this article is to analyze the experiences of women on the autism spectrum in social relationships in the context of their perception of authority. The study aims to determine whether authority is a support for them or rather an obstacle. The research question is: Does authority act as a support or an obstacle for women on the spectrum in social relationships, and if so, how? The research method used was an individual narrative interview, which allowed the participants to speak freely. The conversations were conducted with six women on the autism spectrum. Three types of supportive authority were identified (epistemic, value-based, and relational) and three types of hindering authority (difficult to understand, developmental blocking, and denial-inducing). Authority serves as a support only when it is based on clear communication and a partnership -based relationship. Otherwise, it limits development and weakens the autonomy of women, hindering rather than promoting growth. The women's statements show that the communication style, not the type of authority itself, determines its role. A limitation of the study is the small sample size, which does not allow for full generalization of the results. However, the findings indicate a certain common tendency in the functioning of women on the autism spectrum. This suggests a need for a new perspective on authority in education and the workplace to foster inclusion and strengthen the resources of individuals on the autism spectrum.

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