Callista wrote:
I don't think you need to be afraid. i think it'll make it a little easier for us to get services when we need them. Plus, if you put the Aspies into a larger group, that'll make it harder for people to ignore the skills and talents that other autistics have, because suddenly they're part of the same group as the nerdy engineer who sucks at social stuff but really gets computers. It gets rid of the stereotype that says, "Aspies don't need help; auties can't do anything." Because now they have to wait until they actually meet us to decide. And maybe we'll get help, and get more opportunities, when we couldn't get those things before. At least I hope so.
I remember when I first started studying autism in general, not just Asperger's, and how I realized I had much more in common than not with people they called "low-functioning". If I'd never realized that, I probably would never have realized just how much I could learn about myself, just how many little tricks and tips I could pick up from people who are supposed to be totally unlike me just because I can talk. In reality, there's a lot both of those previously separated groups can learn from one another; now that we have the same label, maybe it'll occur to more of us to try it.
People are going to stereotype no matter what the facts are or what re branding is done. It is human nature to fear the unknown. People on the spectrum are that way also although because of there own experiences many will try harder to overcome it. Considering the types of services being offered and that most of the research money is going to "eradicate" us sometimes I wonder if doing nothing as horrible as it is, is the better option
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“Self Acceptance is a process not a performance”
“You are autistic enough. And you always have been”
Professionally Identified and joined WP August 26, 2013
DSM 5: Autism Spectrum Disorder, DSM IV: Aspergers Moderate Severity.
25 Nov 2013, 1:09 am
