saywhatyamean:
Ha, ha. I had refrained from commenting on this thread because I didn't want to step on anyone's toes. But since you have chimed in, I will say that you pretty much expressed my view.
I understand getting diagnosed for the practical purpose of getting support, but the notion that psychologists have some god-like perception that can validate who one is escapes me. I know I am autistic, and I really don't have faith in these so-called "professionals". When I was a youth, I worked for a while in a small institution for emotionally disturbed children (the official description, not mine). The two psychologists attached to the place were much less effective at dealing with the kids than many of the regular "non-professional" staff! At university, I noted that many of those studying the social sciences were among the least capable students. How can these folks spend a few hours with me and know more about me that I do, myself?
As you suggest, if I wanted a diagnosis getting one would be a piece of cake. But what would it mean and what purpose would it serve?
In addition, like you, I find the criteria, i.e. the DSM, to be arbitrary at best, and the lack of mention of sensory issues is glaring. I do appreciate that the DSM serves a necessary practical purpose for those who need diagnoses in order to get services.
15 Sep 2009, 12:00 pm
