AUTISM-(UN)FRIENDLY SPACES: CARING FOR PERSONS WITH AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDER IN SINGAPORE

Abstract

In examining the multi-scalar and multi-spatial landscape of care for Person(s) with Autism Spectrum Disorder (PwASD) in Singapore, this research aims to achieve the following: (i) illustrate and examine the time-space practices of caregivers, (ii) appreciate PwASD’s experiences of exclusion and stigma in public spaces, and as a result of their proximity, their caregivers’ experiences as well, and (iii) analyse the state’s care efforts towards achieving the aim of ‘enabling justice’ for PwASD and their caregivers. For fieldwork, an in-depth approach is adopted, using the following methods: in-depth interviews with caregivers, ‘go-along’ ethnographic observation and time-space diaries. In doing so, this research will contribute to geographies of care and disability literature by elucidating the diverse experiences of care and disability, and counter the existing ethnocentric bias in the literature with the use of Singapore as a unique case study. It also provides practical contributions by providing a platform for caregivers’ voices to be heard, identifying gaps in state provision and discourse, and furthering our understanding of care to involve not just caregivers and receivers, but states and other citizens as well. Notably, it also illustrates the nature of autism as a spectrum disorder, an important consideration for policymakers.