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The power of language

Wordsmith

I was struck again yesterday by the power of a change of language to change one’s perception of autism and autistic traits. The example I came across was an alternative expansion of PDA: instead of pathological demand avoidance, it is sometimes referred to as a pervasive drive for autonomy.

Previously, I had dismissed the possibility that I might exhibit PDA (avoidance? pathological??). But pervasive drive for autonomy? That fits like a glove. From my childhood rejection of any help that my teachers offered to my inability to work as part of a team (unless I have a clearly defined autonomous role to play) to my suspicion of anyone who tries to exert authority over me.

So, I was wondering whether you have similar experiences of seeing an autistic trait in a new (and more positive) light because it has been described in a new way?

  • Your alternative for PDA is excellent.

    i wish there were an alternative for the disorder in ASD, but as  has pointed out, it would not be a positive move at present. The only hope is if the DSM were to remove the ‘disorder’ in their list of conditions.

  • That's unpathologising it (if that's a word).

    There have been lots of discussions here in the past about the 'pathologising' of autism and that it should just be seen as a difference, per Stuart333's reply.

    What I've struggled with is that if the medical terms were removed then these conditions wouldn't be seen as a disability and therefore any concessions and financial support etc would be removed.

    Also, there are those who are more 'profoundly' autistic etc and these people can have many support needs.

    I would like autism to be referred to as just autism, but if an appendage is required, condition rather than disorder would be best I think.

  • The obvious one is to describe the whole thing as a difference and not a deficit.

    How you frame things makes a big difference, as media, politicians, PR, advertising etc. well know.

    Once you consider a lot as a nervous system overload, which triggers fight/flight, a lot makes sense. Simply understanding the mechanism changes the whole view. You brain is doing what it is supposed to do, it is just the sensitivity is turned up more than others.