this post was submitted on 26 Aug 2023
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Autism

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I would appreciate a diagnosis or classification of autism that isn't described as a disorder (lemmy.world)
submitted 2 years ago* (last edited 2 years ago) by [email protected] to c/[email protected]
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Using a social perspective to autism, I would appreciate if there were a way to classify someone as autistic without calling it a disorder. Yes, we have difficulties, but from a social perspective, a lot of them come from society being structured to meet the needs of allistics. They get guidance, acceptance, and ultimately privilege of a world that is designed for them, while we have to try to meet their expectations. From this perspective, we're not disordered, but oppressed/marginalized. How does that make us disordered?

I agree that there are different levels of functioning, and that some individuals might meet criteria for a disorder due to autism spectrum characteristics, so that would be valid. However, many individuals would function quite well in a setting that was designed to raise, educate, and accommodate autistic brains.

Anyone have any insight or ideas on this?

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[–] [email protected] 6 points 2 years ago (12 children)

I posted something similar as a comment on the ADHD magazine and got an equally negative response, as you seem to be getting. I'm not sure why there is a resistance from some about not labeling these neurotypes as a disorder, but I find it really interesting.

The comments you are receiving seem to come down to these neurotypes aren't normal and therefore any associated difficulties therefore constitute a disorder, which is fascinating and completely misses the point you are making. If Western society wasn't structured in the way it is, those who struggle so much would not, as had been the case for years prior to the definition of autism. I'm not sure why that is a controversial statement but apparently it is.

Side note, the bizarre, ableist mention of "moron" in the top comment is really interesting.

Also, if you are going to comment or disagree with what I write, that's fine, but please don't be aggressive or offensive. I get enough abuse and adversity from allistics, I don't need it from autistics, too. This should be a safe space to discuss things that interest us, it's a facet of our neurotype after all.

[–] [email protected] 6 points 2 years ago (2 children)

I prefer the term neurotype over disorder. It should be seen as a neurological difference not a medical condition.

[–] [email protected] 3 points 2 years ago (1 children)

Yes, exactly. This is how it should be officially described, which, I think, is the point OP is making.

[–] [email protected] 6 points 2 years ago

Yes! Thank you! That's the term I was looking for.

@[email protected]

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