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
  • Just telling someone about my anxiety and the reactions from that, means that after my diagnosis last month, I haven't told many at all including some of my immediate family are in the dark.

    Yes - I agree with what others say on here, we shouldn't be ashamed/hide and should advocate for ourselves and each other.  I'm just not there right yet, have a support call next week and will raise this as area I need help with

Reply
  • Just telling someone about my anxiety and the reactions from that, means that after my diagnosis last month, I haven't told many at all including some of my immediate family are in the dark.

    Yes - I agree with what others say on here, we shouldn't be ashamed/hide and should advocate for ourselves and each other.  I'm just not there right yet, have a support call next week and will raise this as area I need help with

Children
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