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'Autistic' as an insult

StephenHarris

It's becoming increasingly common as such on social media and I'm starting to wonder if in a few years time the NAS is going to have to rename itself like the Spastic Society did.

  • We should ourselves take possession of the word 'autistic'.  We are special, we are part of the rich tapestry of human life.

    If we did this, then the insult would have no effect - it would be like calling someone 'gifted' or a 'brainbox' or similar.

    As an autistic person I am proud of being autistic.  I have nothing to be ashamed of, so if people want to insult others by calling them 'autistic' they are showing their own ignorance.

    Unknown said:
    I’m old and ugly enough to withstand any ill-informed insults. I feel I owe it to the younger generations to be unashamedly autistic and proud to be so. I don’t mean to imply any criticism of anyone who feels otherwise. It’s a dilemma for some, I recognise that.

    I agree with everything you say Graham.  And although I am getting on a bit in years, I don't consider myself ugly, but I uphold the right of anyone to consider themselves so to be ....

  • I've noticed. Especially among kids. 'Failed your test? You'll have to join the autistic group.' 

  • We are on the same page.

    I only mention autism when speaking with mental health case workers, career advisors.  

    NEVER socially.