High Functioning Autism (It's NOT what you think!!) | Patrons Choice

Summary

This video from 'Aspergers From the Inside' challenges the misconceptions about high-functioning autism. It clarifies that the term originally referred to individuals with an IQ above 70, not necessarily those who cope well socially. The speaker emphasizes that functioning levels can vary daily, and 'high-functioning' implies invisible struggles, not reduced challenges. The video dispels stereotypes and calls for empathy, understanding, and kindness towards those with high-functioning autism, highlighting the need to see beyond the surface to the real, exhausting efforts made to navigate daily life.

Takeaways

• 📌 The term 'high-functioning autism' was initially used to describe individuals with an IQ above 70, which does not necessarily correlate with their ability to function well in society.
• 🔄 A person's level of functioning can vary depending on the situation, implying that labeling someone as 'high-functioning' or 'low-functioning' is not accurate as it does not account for fluctuating capabilities.
• 🌐 The concept of 'high-functioning' suggests that an individual's struggles are invisible, not that their challenges are reduced or less significant.
• 💪 High-functioning autism often involves a significant amount of effort to maintain the appearance of normalcy, which can lead to a constant feeling of being at one's limit.
• 😡 The invisibility of struggles can result in misunderstandings and misjudgments from others, who may perceive high-functioning individuals as rude or arrogant due to their lack of awareness of the internal challenges.
• 📉 The term 'high-functioning' can be misleading, as it may imply a lesser degree of difficulty, whereas in reality, it signifies the masking of intense struggles.
• 🔍 The script emphasizes the importance of looking beyond surface appearances to understand the internal struggles of individuals with high-functioning autism.
• 🚫 The stereotype of high-functioning autism is often misrepresented in media, such as the character Sheldon Cooper from 'The Big Bang Theory', which does not accurately reflect the reality for many.
• 🤝 The speaker advocates for empathy, compassion, and kindness towards individuals with high-functioning autism, rather than pity or sympathy.
• 🛑 The video calls for a reevaluation of the term 'high-functioning autism', suggesting that it should be retired in favor of a more accurate understanding of the condition.
• 🌟 The speaker concludes that understanding and acknowledging the real and valid struggles of high-functioning autism can make the world a more friendly and relaxing place for those affected.

Q & A

What is the original purpose of the term 'high-functioning autism'?

The term 'high-functioning autism' was originally used as a diagnosis label to refer to a person with an IQ of above 70, which includes everyone with average to above average IQ who is not diagnosed with an intellectual disability, as well as autism.

Why has the term 'high-functioning autism' been criticized?

The term has been criticized because it was assumed that having an average to above average IQ correlates with the ability to function well in society, which has been shown not to be the case, as highlighted by the research paper 'The Misnomer of High-Functioning Autism' from the University of Western Australia.

How does the speaker describe the variability in a person's level of functioning?

The speaker explains that a person's level of functioning is dependent on the situation, with individuals experiencing both high-functioning and low-functioning days, similar to how neuro-typical individuals may have days where they are less functional due to illness or other factors.

What is the analogy used to describe the experience of having high-functioning autism?

The analogy used is that of a duck paddling underwater, which signifies that despite appearing to be doing well on the surface, individuals with high-functioning autism are putting in a significant amount of effort behind the scenes that is invisible to others.

Why might the struggles of individuals with high-functioning autism be considered 'invisible'?

The struggles are considered 'invisible' because they are not outwardly apparent, and individuals with high-functioning autism may appear to be coping well, despite the significant internal effort and challenges they face.

What is the misconception about 'mild autism' that the speaker addresses?

The misconception is that 'mild autism' or 'high-functioning autism' implies a reduced level of difficulty or challenges, when in reality it means that the struggles are not visible and can be just as intense as in other forms of autism.

How does the speaker explain the potential consequences of high-functioning autism being misunderstood as 'mild'?

The speaker suggests that the misunderstanding can lead to individuals not receiving the help they need, as their struggles are not recognized, and they may suddenly 'fall off the edge,' experiencing a crash or meltdown that can result in the loss of relationships and employment.

What is the stereotype of a person with high-functioning autism that the speaker refutes?

The speaker refutes the stereotype of a person with high-functioning autism being similar to Sheldon Cooper from the Big Bang Theory, stating that the reality is often quite different and can involve significant challenges and struggles that are not immediately apparent.

What is the speaker's suggested approach for understanding and supporting individuals with high-functioning autism?

The speaker suggests that empathy, compassion, and kindness are essential, along with recognizing the real and valid struggles that individuals with high-functioning autism face, even if they are not immediately visible.

What is the main takeaway message from the video according to the speaker?

The main takeaway message is that high-functioning autism means an invisible struggle, and the biggest challenge is the lack of understanding from others, as they cannot see what they do not understand.

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