NTs, why are you here?

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Then, with all objectivity, I think there may have been some misintepretation here, ironically due to differences in neuropathy (i.e., ASD vs. NT) in how we interpret. The point: OP opines Why might NTs post &/or join? Then gives a poll. This is a very good and legitimate question! A question of genuine curiosity; just asking why. Then, some may interpret the query as "Then, is OP saying I should not post here? I'm just as worthy to post as anybody else." Which is indeed correct. However, the premise was missed a bit.....it was merely a question wondering what reasons, like if you have a family member, for research, etc. Then, some others (ASD individuals) I do know, and like, posted in fun, that is, with cute emoticons and pics, to elaborate on the theme. But it's not an imposition or judgmental question, per se. In fact, I think it's a gesture of friendship.

One here does not like....OK, and that's his opinion.

One problem or difference that I do sometimes have with NTs is this very dilemma; they take what I say/write as if it's oppositional which is certainly not the case. See what I mean?

One example (innocuous, but illustrative): I attended a local 'group' for Autism - mostly with just NT parents. I really did not fit in, at all! And the difference was gaping. But there was one Aspie there (whom I do like). I do stim (some) and noticably. The parents, ironically, had been talking about stimming (and why it's bad, stop them, blah blah blah). I did write, with genuine honesty, "Is my stimming bothersome to you? Or instrusive?" I asked because I was curious. With no emotion. As a query to them, to investigate the matter.

What I got back: The parents were edgy, expressing that I was somehow defiant (no). Thankfully, the other Aspie said, in effect, "It's just a question! Exploratory." Yes! See the difference? I know sometimes Aspies ask.....but it's what we do! We are a curious people. Those questions are not necessarily trying to make another defensive/upset. Then, worse, we may not really understand why given NT is upset, and with us personally! Really this is a difference in interpretation and style of thought. And this is precisely why it's very good we have NTs on board. Even though we might give them a headache at times. And they hurt our feelings.

Then, the other Aspie at this meeting did point out that, to us, stimming is good. Stimming serves a purpose and it's calming, like nothing else. In fact, I can get positively lost in stimming. Then, at meeting, I did instruct that stimming (Self Stimulatory Repetitive Movement) propogates a rush of oxytocin, the hormone of love/bonding. [factoid - that is what stimming does; it's love.]

Those parent did not know. Although some stimming can be disruptive (in extreme cases!) or draw unwanted attention (which then may need to be addressed), it does fulfill a real sensory need, like DW_a_mom stated above. Even stimming, which is natural to us, can be misinterpreted by the "normal" population, and unfortunately even medical providers. But love/bonding is oftentimes what ASD individuals are missing - and may be why we don't bond so well. Instead, we manufacture that oxytocin manually.

Stimming feels like drinking warm soup and it flows. Maybe NTs need to know that sort-of thing and that's why they are here. Plus, then they teach us about emotive stuff.

So, wasn't that a fascinating story of Sister Viktorine?

Note: Currently 79% said they are Autistic & want to know the results (I'm in this category too). I am curious sometimes - I'd guess they have a family member (mostly), they're a paid researcher, or they think Aspies are hot and like to watch us in action (so I tell myself) - kidding, sort-of . In fact, one NT (that I very much like!) said once they posted here for help on math homework - that's legit. I'm inclined. Those reasons are interesting to us.

Nostaglia......One famed NT, OK if I give his name? Dr. Ed Ritvo (UCLA) is (or was....heh heh) a member, briefly. I lambasted him and hard. Dr. Ed was postively rude and out-of-line with all of us. Also lost. Granted, he *may* be a good doctor (read some of his stuff though - don't know) but I don't much like him, personally. Then, his wife (yes, Mrs. Ritvo) actually emailed me. I have bragged about his.....almost banned Dr. Ritvo. He and I were on a first name basis too (Eddie 'n the Lab Pet). Dang.

I'm no expert in abbreviations, and I always guess some of them, but is that a typo? It seems like it should be GTFO. (Get the f*** out?)

Well this is just great. If you put down that you think you have Asperger's on your profile but don't have a diagnosis then you're not welcome because you're fake. If you decide not to, to leave it as neurotypical, then you are also not welcome. And aspies accuse NTs of ostracising them and making them feel left out.

(I thank the flying spaghetti monster for those posters wise enough to oppose this elitism.)

Well this is just great. If you put down that you think you have Asperger's on your profile but don't have a diagnosis then you're not welcome because you're fake. If you decide not to, to leave it as neurotypical, then you are also not welcome. And aspies accuse NTs of ostracising them and making them feel left out.

(I thank the flying spaghetti monster for those posters wise enough to oppose this elitism.)

The categories came up on the WP Discussion board and, based on the comments there, I decided the thing to do was to put a little info on it in my sig, since not all is as neat as pick option 1, 2 or 3. I have no idea when or if ever we can get Alex to work on the programmed options, but it seems that members do like to know, and that is my advice for now to anyone uncomfortable with the choices.

MotherKnowsBest: You are always welcome on the Wrong Planet.