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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?

Parents

  • 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. 

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  • 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. 

Children
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