Pride and Prejudice – Emotions in the lives of fathers of autistic children.
Ms Joanne Heeney, University of York
Date: Wednesday 16 November, 2016
Time: 2.15pm–3.45pm
Place: EDEN 109, Liverpool Hope University, UK
Most research with fathers of autistic children focuses on the psychological aspects of raising an autistic child, paternal stress and coping. MacDonald and Hastings (2010) find not all fathers of disabled children are psychologically distressed, although this has not been adequately reflected in research. Fathers are likely to experience a range of complex and contradictory emotions in relation to masculinity and (dis)ability, and draw on a range of identities and practices as they encounter different social actors and situations. Ms Heeney examines fathers’ reflections on their personal relationships with an autistic child; where fun, humour, joy, pride, intimacy and fulfilment stand in stark contrast to what may be assumed about masculinity, autism, and masculinity in relation to autism. Also, men’s management of their own emotional and behavioural responses following other peoples’ reactions to their presence alongside autistic children in different social situations are discussed. A contextual lens shows how fathers experience complex and contradictory messages and emotions about disability and gender which may conflict with their earlier accounts.
Joanne Heeney is Doctoral Candidate at the University of York, Centre for Women’s Studies. She returned to university as a mature student, completing a masters in Social Work at Liverpool Hope University in 2012.
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For further information please contact: Dr David Bolt ([log in to unmask])
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