The Common Myth
Have you ever heard or uttered the phrase, “We are all on the spectrum?” Perhaps, you’ve encountered someone saying it with a casual shrug. This statement, though seemingly innocuous, carries weighty implications.
Misunderstandings Lead to Ignorance
If this phrase held true, there wouldn’t be a struggle for people like myself and countless others to fit into societal norms. You, standing on the other end of the spectrum, wouldn’t be perplexed or offended by our behaviours or thought processes.
The Call for Empathy and Understanding
The need for empathy is paramount. Accepting neurodivergent individuals requires more than just tolerance. It demands understanding, a step beyond mere acknowledgment.
The Danger of Invalidating Experiences
By casually tossing around “we’re all on the spectrum,” you inadvertently invalidate those truly on the autism spectrum. Your words echo louder than you think. They erase the unique experiences and challenges faced by individuals with autism.
Educate Yourself
Before thoughtlessly echoing this phrase, take time to educate yourself. Learn about autism, about those who live their lives on the spectrum every day. Here’s a helpful video to get you started: