Should Autism be considered an illness?
You raise an insightful point regarding the terminology used to describe autism. While autism was previously considered an illness or disorder, recent perspectives emphasize it as a difference in neurological and cognitive functioning. This shift reflects both the self-advocacy of autistic individuals and evolving research on autism’s complex nature.
Autism is best understood as a natural variation in human diversity rather than something needing a cure. Each autistic person possesses a unique profile of strengths and support needs. With acceptance and appropriate accommodations, autistic individuals can live fulfilling lives and make valuable contributions to society.
Research continues to enhance our understanding. A 2020 study involving 654 autistic adults across 30 countries found most prefer identity-first language like “autistic person” over person-first terms like “person with autism.”1 This preference underscores autism as a core part of personal identity rather than something separate.
Additional evidence suggests autism stems from genetic and biological factors in brain development rather than environmental causes or parenting.2 While autism may bring challenges, it also conveys distinct ways of thinking and perceiving that expand human potential. Overall, considering autism a difference acknowledges both the diversity of human cognition and autistic people’s right to define their own experiences.
Bogdashina, Olga. Communication Issues in Autism and Asperger Syndrome: Do We Speak the Same Language? 2nd ed., Jessica Kingsley Publishers, 2016.
ProQuest Ebook Central, https://ebookcentral.proquest.com/lib/concordia-ebooks/detail.action?docID=4719122.
Kapp, Steven K. et al. “Deficit, Difference, or Both? Autism and Neurodiversity.” Developmental psychology vol. 49,1 (2013): 59-71. doi:10.1037/a0028353
Russell, Gill. Everybody Here Spoke Sign Language: Hereditary Deafness on Martha’s Vineyard. Harvard University Press, 2009. ProQuest Ebook Central, https://ebookcentral.proquest.com/lib/concordia-ebooks/detail.action?docID=3300393.
Silberman, Steve. NeuroTribes: The Legacy of Autism and the Future of Neurodiversity. Penguin Books, 2016.
Understanding Health and Healing in American Indian and Alaskan Native Beliefs
The Debate on Psychologists’ Prescription Privileges: Current Status, Requirements, and Implications Psychologists’ inability to prescribe medication stems from their educational background and regulatory restrictions. Unlike psychiatrists, who complete medical school and residency training, psychologists typically lack the extensive medical and pharmacological education necessary for safe medication management (Robiner et al., 2020). This limitation reflects the […]
