Cognitive Discourse Analysis of Autistic Identity Construction in Martin’s Rain Reign

Abstract

Identity construction is a dynamic, socially mediated process by which individuals construct and express their sense of self through language, narrative, and interaction. Combining identity studies, especially those related to the autistic identity type, with cognitive analysis would highlight how language is used to construct, access, and modify mental representations of oneself and others. Through a qualitative descriptive analysis of language, including thirty-six extracts in Martin’s novel ‘Rain Reign’, the current study explores how the autistic protagonist, Rose Howard, communicates and engages with others. The study follows Hart’s (2015) four-dimensional cognitive discourse model, in which only two dimensions, identification and positioning, of the four dimensions are used to analyze the selected data. According to the findings, Rose’s identity is constructed through a complex interplay between these two strategies. Additionally, a close examination of Rose’s linguistic choices reveals how they reflect and shape her unique perspective, emotional growth, and social adaptability. As a result, a positive autistic identity is constructed that refutes the negative autistic traits hypothesized. The findings also suggest that cognitive discourse analysis is a comprehensive approach, offering a robust framework that combines analytical depth and social relevance for understanding identity in neurodiverse discourse.