What is Autism?
Autism, or autism spectrum disorder, also known as (ASD), is a disability referring to an extensive span of conditions personified by challenges with social skills, speech and nonverbal communication, and can also include repetitive behaviors or interests. There are different subtypes to autism, most influenced by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Since autism is a spectrum disorder, each person with autism has a distinct set of strengths and challenges. People with ASD may also have different ways of learning, comprehending, managing, or paying attention. Autism spectrum disorder impacts the nervous system. The range and severity of symptoms can vary broadly.
Why this subject is important:
Especially nowadays, people like to use autism to bully others, even if they don´t have autism. Often teenagers act as though autism is something to make fun of because it’s ¨different¨ when really we are all the same and we are all human, with or without autism. Autism doesn’t have a look, but people make fun of it like it does. Kids and adults with autism may learn, cope, and communicate differently, but it doesn’t mean they can’t be as smart or smarter than those who don’t have autism. I have a little sister with autism. She’s barely in kindergarten and it would break my heart to see her get bullied the way I see kids bully others with autism, she doesn’t deserve to get bullied for something that isn’t even her fault. There is no normal, and there is no eerie or unusual, but there is real. Which is all of us.
We should accept one another for all of our similarities and differences. No matter who you are, you matter. So does the person next to you, behind you, and in front of you. We all have a purpose, therefore we should respect one another despite our divergence. Don’t use autism as a reason to bully others, for there is nothing wrong with being autistic. If you see something, say something; be part of the change and be kind to everyone. Bullying is never okay. Be supportive and caring to everybody no matter who they are.
Resources/Links:
https://www.autismspeaks.org/what-autism
What Is Autism Spectrum Disorder?
American Psychiatric Association https://www.psychiatry.org › patients-families › what-i…