Answers to frequently asked questions about autism.
- Lii Brooke
- Jul 14, 2024
- 2 min read
Here I look at some popular Google search terms on the subject of autism. If you have recently come to identify as autistic, then you may find the answers to the questions below useful.
Caveat: all statements are my own views and I respect that your own perspective may differ.
What is autism?
To my knowledge, there are broadly-speaking two main views on this at present. There is the historically dominant pathology-informed view, which presents autism as a disorder to be managed or as a condition to be endured.
There is also the newer, progressive perspective, very much advanced by the voices of the autistic people themselves. This is the neurodiversity-affirmative view, which proposes that autism is a cognitive difference.
Autistic people have their own strengths and, yes, their own struggles. However, autistic is very much who we are and we choose to embrace our neurotype wholeheartedly. We are not impaired. We are different.
Is autism a learning disability?
No, it is not. This is the short answer. Autistic individuals, just like neurotypical people, can have learning disabilities, however, these do not define the autistic neurotype.
What are the autism symptoms?
I believe in the neurodiversity-affirmative definition of autism as a cognitive difference and not a disorder. So the word "symptoms" does not apply. It is like asking, what are the symptoms of being human.
There are autistic commonalities, such as having areas of intense interest, which often become subjects of expertise. There is also the strong tendency towards self-sufficiency and independence as well as the ability to be very happy in one's own company for extended periods of time.
The current diagnostic criteria in the UK call out struggles as reverse sides of these strengths. Hopefully with time and research, led by the autistic community itself, a balanced view of autism will become prevalent.
Can autism be cured? Here is the answer to the most important autism question of all.
No! Thankfully! Really, there is only one of you in the entire world, why would you want to cure yourself of you?
Yes, we struggle. But we also have talents others do not.
With self-understanding and self-acceptance you can reach a healthy compromise with the world and live as your authentic, wonderful self.
There is no need to self-erase. Please do not. You bring a unique set of strengths to society. Embrace those strengths and use them for the greater good.
If my brazen neurodiversity-affirmative views resonate with you, you may wish to have a look at Dr Luke Beardon's "Autism in Adults" and also at "The Adult Autism Assessment Handbook" by Davida Hartman et al.
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My name is Lii. I am an autistic counsellor, supporting autistic professionals in navigating all aspects of life. Start with strengths and see possibilities, start with struggles and see limitations. Which do you choose?
In-person in Chalfont St Giles, near Gerrards Cross, or online across the UK and the Republic of Ireland. Book your free 15-minute introductory call.
