Abstract

Using semi-structured interviews this research explored the experiences of transitioning autistic adults with online communication. Participants shared information about navigating online communication, highlighting specific challenges such as interpreting tone and sarcasm, managing unspoken social norms, like emoji use, and responding to ambiguous or unexpected interactions. Participants shared that misunderstandings do occur in their online communication and how they recognize those miscommunications and strategize around preventing and mitigating them. These findings reveal that while computer-mediated communication offers opportunities for connection, it also presents unique obstacles that can exacerbate feelings of frustration due to miscommunications or misunderstandings. To prevent these social frictions or frustrations, there is a need for inclusive digital environments.

Degree

College and Department

Computational, Mathematical, and Physical Sciences; Computer Science

Rights

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