7/30/08

Only You Can Stop Autism Stereotypes

By Smith Roberts

The autistic people have too regularly endure a lot of varied reactions from the people they meet. The reactions can include full support to bad reactions. Generally folks just do not know much about autism even individuals who are very affectionate toward autistic individuals. People, regardless of intentions, often have a stereotypical image of the autistic child. The only thing that can solve people's misconceptions about autism is education. If you are the parent of an autistic child, do not be afraid to explain to others how to deal with your child.

It is most significant to note that not every autistic person is the same. Other diseases and disorders have their own rigid diagnostic rules, but autism is such a complex medical condition that there are many varying degrees of diagnosis. Most of the time, those diagnosed with autism are rated on a functional scale. The more highly functional people are able to hold down jobs and take care themselves for the most part, while the neediest ones, low functioning, sometimes require 24-7 care. Some of the symptoms of autism include behavioral problems, uncontrolled movements, problems communicating, and problems expressing emotion. Some show all symptoms, while other show few, and still others may have most under control to the point where you cannot tell they have autism at all.

Because every person is different, no one thing can be said about autism and be true overall. The one thing that is a re-occurring theme in autistic people is that they can't express their emotions like they would like to. This does not mean that an autistic person does not feel. He or she simply cannot express this feeling. It also does not mean strong relationship bonds are not possible. On the contrary, many autistic people are happily married and in love. If not always easy for the autistic person, but with time it can happen.

Many people suppose that being autistic coincides with being a genius. While it is true that some autistic individuals have extraordinary math, music, and art skills, this number is nowhere near the majority. In fact, relatively few autistic people function outside of the normal range in any skill. This stereotype is perpetuated in the movies and on television, because the story of a talented person fighting disadvantages (such as autism) makes a good plot. However, this is not the norm, so nothing more than the best they can individually do should be expected from an autistic person.

If there's one idea that you need to know about autism, it is that we need to be more tolerant of those who have the condition. Patience goes a long way when dealing with people with autism. Just be sure to educate yourself about the disorder, and your encounters with them will go much more effectively. Then to share what you know with others around you about how to deal with and the more tolerant of the autistic.

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