Ethical Research in Autism: An Integrative Review of Autistic Perspectives in Overcoming Pathological Paradigms
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.18537/mskn.16.02.07Keywords:
Ethics research, autism, community participation, social discrimination, neurodiversityAbstract
Autism is recognized as a variation of neurodevelopment characterized by some degree of difficulty in communication and social interaction. The emergence of the neurodiversity paradigm has motivated research that enables a more constructive practice in contrast to the prevailing pathological paradigm. The tensions between these paradigms have opened necessary discussions that must be examined prior to initiating research processes. Objective: To explore the ethical tensions described in the literature and the proposed prevention strategies. Methodology: An integrative literature review was conducted. The keywords “ethical” AND “autism” AND “research” and their combinations were used, resulting in 14 selected articles after screening. Findings highlight the importance of ethical frameworks that value autistic identity, community participation, and contextually grounded well-being approaches. Conclusion: It is crucial to adopt an inclusive approach that values the voices and perspectives of autistic individuals throughout the research process. Critical theory and the concept of neurocosmopolitanism are proposed as tools to reconfigure research and ensure inclusive, respectful practices centered on the experiences of autistic people.
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