Rethinking the value of an autism diagnosis

An autism diagnosis offers clarity and self-acceptance, guiding individuals toward personal growth rather than societal expectations of productivity. It empowers authentic living and encourages meaningful connections while emphasizing self-worth is not tied to external achievements. Any sharing or advocacy should stem from genuine desire, prioritizing well-being and individuality.

Outside the Comfort Zone: My Autistic Perspective

In this article I argue that growth should not mean abandoning one’s comfort zone but rather expanding it safely. My comfort zone is a sanctuary that provides predictability and well-being. Growth involves gradual, intentional steps that honor personal limits, allowing for self-acceptance and meaningful development without overwhelming discomfort.

Rewriting the rules of Neurodiverse Gaming

The article analyzes how video games represent neurodiversity, pushing for authentic voices and inclusive design. It critiques current practices, emphasizing that many games risk reducing neurodivergent experiences to stereotypes. True inclusion requires neurodivergent creators’ involvement, promoting autonomy and diverse gameplay mechanics to challenge societal norms and reflect the complexity of human experiences.

Neurodiversity: A Misused Idea?

Neurodiversity means celebrating all brain differences, not just autism. It’s about inclusion, empowerment, and rejecting harmful labels. © Tistje.com The idea of neurodiversity started as a powerful movement, offering a new way to look at people with conditions like autism, ADHD, and dyslexia. Instead of seeing these as problems to fix, the movement argued that theyContinue reading “Neurodiversity: A Misused Idea?”

Breaking Barriers: Rethinking Autism and Inclusion in the Workplace

Examining workplace barriers for autistic individuals and exploring employer perceptions and solutions © Tistje.com Autism affects millions of people worldwide, shaping their experiences in every aspect of life, including the workplace. In the United Kingdom, an estimated 680,000 autistic adults face significant employment challenges, with only 30% of them being employed. This is in starkContinue reading “Breaking Barriers: Rethinking Autism and Inclusion in the Workplace”

The Magic of Live Music: Autistic Experiences and the Path to Inclusion

Live music inspires but may overwhelm. Concerts demands design & trained staff. © tistje.com Music transcends words. It speaks directly to the heart and soul, a universal art form that unites and inspires. For many, live music is a collective euphoria, a moment of shared connection. But for autistic adults, this experience can feel like walkingContinue reading “The Magic of Live Music: Autistic Experiences and the Path to Inclusion”

Autistic Witnesses in the Courtroom: A Critical Reflection

Study finds autism diagnosis increases witness reliability; advocates for a more inclusive legal system. © made by tistje.com Autistic individuals often face unique challenges in the courtroom. Their behavior, such as avoiding eye contact or using monotone speech, can be misinterpreted by jurors, leading to biased assessments of their reliability and competence. To counteract this, itContinue reading “Autistic Witnesses in the Courtroom: A Critical Reflection”

The Many Ways We Communicate: Understanding Autistic Conversations

Communication between autistics is as diverse, rich, respectful, dynamic and complex as between other groups in society. Autistics communicating (according to an anonymous AI-assistent 😉 ) Communication among autistic people is often overlooked, but it is just as complex as interactions with neurotypical individuals. While some of us share traits like a preference for clear language, our communicationContinue reading “The Many Ways We Communicate: Understanding Autistic Conversations”

10 Great Ideas of Autistics

A personal inquiry into 10 great ideas that I cherish the expanding of cognitive possibilities, seen from the viewpoint of the author of this text As an autistic adult, I’ve come to understand that the way I see, think about, and interact with the world is profoundly different from the norm. This divergence has shaped my philosophyContinue reading “10 Great Ideas of Autistics”

Bridging the Gap: My Experience as an Autistic Adult with Conversations

Autistic communication thrives with clarity, patience, understanding, inclusivity, and mutual respect. As an autistic adult, I often experience conversations differently from others. It’s important to understand that my perspective doesn’t represent everyone on the spectrum — autism is incredibly diverse. In this article, I’ll share some personal challenges I face in conversations, as well as how my communicationContinue reading “Bridging the Gap: My Experience as an Autistic Adult with Conversations”