Busting the Autism Stereotypes

[amazon_link asins=’0253018005′ template=’ProductAd’ store=’lear01-20′ marketplace=’US’ link_id=’d9dd91e5-0e27-11e8-9e6a-b35370d32cb2′]As with anyone with a physical or mental disorder, autistic people deal with a wide range of reactions from others, from full support to uncaring ignorance. Unfortunately, even those who support autistic family members, co-workers, teachers, therapists and friends may not understand autism very well. This leads to stereotypes, which can result in hatred, embarrassment, or other unhappy situations. By becoming educated about autism, you can help others in your community cope with this disorder.

Recently my hubby and I had to advocate for our autistic middle school aged son because his assigned speech therapist did not understand why changing his routine for speech was such a big deal and mentioned that ‘Even middle school students with disabilities can follow directions independently’.  Unfortunately, what some teachers and/or therapists that come in contact with your autistic son or daughter may not ‘get’ are that when you meet an autistic child you have only met that one example of what autism may look like in that child. Every autistic child is not created equal and should not be compared to the average middle school student or otherwise. This is why it is imperative to set the record straight and continue to advocate and educate people.

autism is such a complex medical condition, that everyone reacts differently to it. Autistic people are usually rated on a functional scale, with high-functioning people being able to hold jobs and low-functioning people needing 24-hour-a-day care.  Some show all symptoms, while other show few, and still others may have most under control to the point where you cannot tell they have autism at all.

Because every person is different, no one thing can be said about autism and be true overall. However, most autistic people have trouble communicating emotions. This does not mean that an autistic person does not feel, but simply cannot express this feeling. It also does not mean strong relationship bonds are not possible. On the contrary, many autistic people are happily married and in love. Forming relationships is more difficult for most, but can be accomplished over time.

In the end, the most important lesson to take away from your studies on autism is one of tolerance. You will probably need to be patient when dealing with autistic people, but by understanding a little more about the disorder, perhaps this will be easier. Learn what you can and spread the knowledge to those you know to help create a more tolerant setting for autistic individuals in your community.

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WANT TO USE THIS ARTICLE IN YOUR E-ZINE OR WEBSITE? You can, as long as you include this complete blurb with it: Mandu Usoro, US Army Veteran, Experienced Homeschooler, Parent Advocate and  is the founder of Homeschool Special Needs Tidbits, a website/weblog about homeschooling, public school education,  special needs children, personal bookstore, and articles about educating special needs children and the tools needed for success.

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