• Replies 2 replies
  • Subscribers 81 subscribers
  • Views 601 views
  • Users 0 members are here
Options
Related
Hints and tips
  • To quote someone's message, first select/highlight the relevant text, and then use the Quote button that appears
  • To "mention" someone, type @ followed by the start of the forum name, and choose from the list; that person will get a notification of being mentioned

Human after all

JT

So I'm frustrated that autism is considered to be a disability. I struggle with sensory overload, but I view my austistic traits as abilities. These abilities should surely then mean anyone without them be deemed less able than I, so aren't they the disabled ones?

I found this article both interesting and slightly condescending

www.theguardian.com/.../autism-doesnt-have-to-be-viewed-as-a-disability-or-disorder

  • My view is that it is a useful label in certain circumstances and offers some benefits. In most situations I function as well, or better, than most neurotypical people, but in others I do not function at all. If I am in a crowded place for more than a few minutes, if there is a strong pervading smell, such as perfume, if I was near a barking dog or other source of random loud noise, in somewhere with bright strobing lights etc., I am not able to function. Having something recognised as a disability allows me to get away from such situations free of any reticence or embarrassment , I can just explain that I am autistic. It is also very useful in education and employment to have legally enforceable rights for accommodations to prevent discrimination because of being autistic. Without the legal rights bestowed by autism being classed as a disability, these advantages would most certainly disappear.

  • I just maintain that the D stands for DIFFERENCE, not disability. 

    I do allow that Autism presents as a disability in some limited circumstances but it also confers an abundance of abilities that the normies don't have in other situations.

    I've noticed that all of my SERIOUS problems (apart from appendicitus and falling off motorbikes), come from OTHER PEOPLE and are rarely self generated. 

    Consequently, I'm struggling harder now, post diagnosis, to raise ANY interest in social activities, or "going out" than I ever did. I KNOW EXACTLY where the problem is now, and it's OUT THERE...