Document Type
Thesis
Date of Degree Completion
Spring 2023
Degree Name
Master of Science (MS)
Department
Psychology
Committee Chair
Ralf Greenwald
Second Committee Member
Mary Radeke
Third Committee Member
Stephen Schepman
Abstract
Due to the increased prevalence of both the diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and academic support for it, it is more likely than ever before for young adults on the spectrum to attend some form of post-secondary education. While previous research has been conducted on college students’ openness to and willingness to interact with an autistic peer, there have been no examinations on whether the gender of the peer influences these factors. This study examined the potential impact of both gender (male, female, non-binary) and stated diagnosis (ASD, social anxiety, no diagnosis) on participant perceptions of a vignette character. While no significant differences were found between groups, participants who reported having a relationship with either an autistic individual or one with social anxiety (i.e., coworkers, friends, family members) generally reported significantly more positive perceptions of the vignette character.
Recommended Citation
LaRue, Elise, "College Students' Perceptions of Autistic Peers: A Study of Gender and Stigma" (2023). All Master's Theses. 1878.
https://digitalcommons.cwu.edu/etd/1878