This article unpacks the popular saying “If you’ve met one person with autism, you’ve met one person with autism.” It explains how the quote usefully challenges stereotypes, but can also erase shared autistic struggles, excuse employers from making changes, and turn autism into an “impossible mystery.”
Autistic people are unique, but not so unique that patterns disappear. This piece argues that overusing the famous “one person with autism” quote can undermine solidarity, shift all responsibility onto individuals, and let schools and workplaces avoid simple, helpful adjustments—while stressing the need for both general knowledge and personal understandin
Tag Archives: neurodiversity
From Neurospicy to Neuronormativity: A Language for the Neurodivergent Reality
In this article I describe a few terms that online communities are developing, and what is called “neuroslang,” a unique vocabulary for neurodivergent individuals.This language replaces clinical labels with empowering terms, expressing identity and experiences. By creating their own terminology, these communities promote self-acceptance and solidarity, transforming how society perceives neurodivergence.
Ten Lessons I learned as an autistic adult
This article outlines ten lessons I learned for improving life with a unique thinking style. Key points include recognizing one’s linear thinking, controlling unpredictability, monitoring personal signals, utilizing planning effectively, translating abstract concepts, managing energy, consciously deciding when to mask, seeking practical support, allowing time for insights, and embracing one’s personal autism narrative without societal expectations.
You’re Not Just Overstimulated. You’re Processing. Why High Sensitivity Isn’t “Autism-Light”
The distinction between Highly Sensitive Persons (HSP) and autistic individuals is crucial for proper support. While HSPs process information deeply and intuitively connect social context, autistic individuals often struggle with context and rely on reasoned logic. This article is my interpretation of a recent communiqué from Peter Vermeulen (Belgian expert autism), Séverine Van De Voorde (Belgian expert in ADHD and high sensitivity) and Esther Bergsma (high sensitivity expert from the Netherlands) on the subject. Misdiagnosis can lead to ineffective support, underscoring the need for precise distinctions in neurodivergent diagnoses.
Rewriting the rules of Neurodivergent Gaming
The article critiques the representation of neurodiversity in video games, highlighting the importance of authentic voices and inclusive design. It discusses how games can foster understanding and empathy while warning against the risks of reducing neurodivergent experiences to mere symbolism. True inclusion necessitates active participation from neurodivergent creators and players.
‘Are We All on the Autism Spectrum?’ … autism and frequently asked questions
The question of whether everyone is on the autism spectrum generates varied responses from autistic adults worldwide. Most assert that not everyone is autistic, emphasizing that autism is a specific neurodevelopmental condition, not merely a set of traits. The discussion reveals deeper concerns about identity, advocacy, and the implications of generalizations on struggles faced by autistic individuals.
The 100 of the Autism Community: Who Speaks, Who Supports, Who’s Left Out – An In-Depth Overview
In this article I present a detailed analysis of the autism landscape, illustrating voices, power dynamics, and areas of silence within the community. It highlights four primary groups: Autistic Self-Representation, Professional Networks, Families, and Silent Voices. The conclusion emphasizes the need for true inclusivity and equitable sharing of power, advocating for new spaces and deeper listening.
Neurodivergent Characters in Fiction: A New Way to Read Stories
Nowadays readers interpret characters as neurodivergent, without worrying about whether the author meant it that way.
Why There Is No Such Thing as a Neurotypical … autism and neurodiversity
On his blog, Peter Vermeulen argues that the concept of a “neurotypical” brain is flawed, as every brain is uniquely wired and does not adhere to rigid norms. In this article, I take a good look at his arguments and try to explain what they mean.
Autistic People Don’t Owe You Empathy … autism and empathy
Why the well-meaning “autistic people are empathic too” narrative still misses the point.
