I’m Autistic, Not “On The Spectrum”
Why I prefer identity-first language
First off, I am newly-diagnosed, so I am still learning about myself and about the wider neurodivergent community.
Secondly, I speak only for myself. Autistic people are not a homogenous group, there exist a variety of perspectives, opinions, and experiences amongst individuals. I do not speak for others.
It’s up to the individual to decide what terminology they feel fits them best, so please respect that person’s choice.
If you think of a bell curve, approximately 5% of the population are considered outliers. Well, approximately 6–9% of people are thought to have ADHD, it’s estimated 2–3% of people are Autistic, and only 2.5% of the population is considered highly or profoundly gifted.
So why are some neurotypes valued and idealized, while others are considered less-than?
No really, I’m asking.
Read my article on Artfully Autistic.
