Keywords: TikTok, Netnorgraphy, Neurodiversity, Discourse Analysis

HCI researchers are dedicated to studying how computational technologies can enhance the well-being of nurodivergent individuals, including those with autism. However, there is growing concern that proposed technologies that exclude autistic individuals from the conceptualization process can lead to “epistemic violence”. Drawing from a substantial body of psychological and cognitive science, human-computer interaction researchers naturally tend to adopt a medical model (one of the disability models) when working with the autism community, attempting interventions through so-called scientific methods and technology. Many technologies promote themselves as “empowering” autistic individuals by teaching them social interaction skills, thus improving their capacity for independent living.

Nevertheless, such empowerment may be wishful thinking. For a long time, there has been an imbalance in power dynamics between autistic individuals and neurotypical individuals. Power does not reside in one person but exists within the relationships between individuals and groups. Under the medical model, researchers assume that behaviors differentiating autistic individuals from neurotypical individuals are abnormal and require correction. The only way to integrate autistic individuals into society is to make their behavior more like that of neurotypical individuals. This ultimately conveniences neurotypical individuals, as they do not have to make more efforts to accommodate the diverse needs of others.

“Design is aways political.” Through design, HCI researchers redistributing power between individuals with autism and neurotypicals. Aligning with HCI’s human-centric philosophy, it is imperative to scrutinize the power dynamics of technology and prioritize the perspectives of individuals with autism. This approach is integral to the evolution of forthcoming technologies. Therefore, Early in my doctoral program, I chose to conducted a series of studies to listen and understand these discourse.

What are autistic TikTokers talking about?

We will present our work: Weaving Autistic Voices on TikTok: Utilizing Co-Hashtag Networks for Netnography at CSCW ’23!

What does technology reveal about the needs of families with autism? Who is ultimately empowered?

(ongoing project)