The Autism Society Event and Education Recordings Archive

The concept of normality influences how we perceive people. Mr. Miller will show that the concept of normality is subjective. Participants will see behaviors that are derided in people with autism, but are viewed positively in neurotypicals. Ultimately, by changing perceptions it will create more opportunities for those with autism. In society, individuals with autism are are perceived as different or even outsiders in society. They are misunderstood and at times discriminated against. There is a widespread perception that people with high-functioning autism are not normal. This is epitomized by statements that view them as brats, lacking certain human qualities or even dangerous. This creates a condition where people with autism are judged more harshly than neurotypicals and thus do not enjoy opportunities that others receive.

The presentation, Autism and the Myth of Normality sets to dispel societal misconceptions about individuals with high-functioning autism. First, the concept of what normality exactly is will be explored. One will see that normality is not as immutable and homogenous as it seems. Beneath the surface normality evolves over time and is influenced by culture, religious considerations, locus among other factors. People's behavior in public may not necessarily be who they are, but a mask or facade to others. Thus what they project is a mirage and not what is real. Normality is inherently subjective in nature and has too many variables and does not exist in a concrete sense.

In the second part of the presentation different behavioral characteristics that are seen as indicative of people with high-functioning autism will be examined. More often than not these characteristics are viewed in a very negative manner, while overlooking any positive elements. This creates a condition that inhibits growth, stability and integration for people with autism. However, when similar characteristics are found in neurotypical they are seen as strengths and not weaknesses. Consider when a person with autism has a very strong interest in science it is an obsession, yet no one accused Frank Lloyd Wright of being obsessed with architecture or Gordon Ramsey with cooking. By looking at the obvious perceptual dichotomies it is my hope that others will view these autism characteristics in a more flexible and less prejudicial manner.

The learning objectives of the presentation are as follows: 1. Attendees will learn about the concept of normality and how it is by a multitude of variables. 2. Attendees will learn how certain behaviors seen as autistic are mis-perceived and mis-characterized. 3. Attendees will learn how neuro-typicals with behaviors viewed as autistic are viewed differently and more positively. Ultimately, I want people to view individuals with high-functioning autism in a more humanized manner, characterized by empathy and understanding. This will create conditions that will help us further integrate into society and create further opportunities.

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