Do you think Autism has a negative image?

One thought keeps cropping up and would like to get your views on this topic. Do you think Autism has a negative image in a general sense? Until recently I knew very little about it and from the little I did know I thought of TV programmes like the A word. More recently, now I am a bit more attuned to things, I've noticed on the media/TV that autism is portrayed as a mental health condition. Patience seems a more positive view and a bit of an exception. I watched unforgotten recently on ITV and there was a lad on that they clearly had problems but all they talked about was his autism. Then I was watching the news earlier on and there was a young girl who sounded like she took her own life but had previously been arrested as suspected far right terrorist. Again they mentioned she was autistic.

Maybe I am just seeing more negative cases?

Would be interested to understand what you think?

It seems like a real barrier to me in terms of being open about being autistic when its potentially perceived in negative way? 

Parents Reply
  • I guess I've always had to stand up for myself, I've never really had anyone to stand up for me or even with me, I suppose it's why I may come across as a bit confrontational or over emphatic. But I really can't be doing with having to expalin myself, or excuse myself anymore, I'm nobodies punch bag or door mat, never again, so I try and make sure to give people as little ammunition against me as possible, I take the things that some would see as a weakness and turn it into a strenght.

Children
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