Moving from a Deficit Medical Model to a Social Model for Humans on the Autism Spectrum

Image of black bird perched atop an empty closed cage with words below reading: Birds born in a cage think flying is an illness. In all capitals. Quote by Alejandro Jodorowsky. The spectrum of autism, including the variable attributes of nationality, age, gender identity, ability, intersectionality, and coexisting conditions, greatly determines one’s understanding of the…

Invisible . . .

  Sometimes I feel invisible when another assumes things about me that are not accurate, particularly, if their assumption contradicts my own deepest self. This happens most often when another interprets my actions as having an ulterior motive. When I speak, there are times another will assume I am: bragging to impress; stating something to…

Meet Michelle: Samantha Craft interviews autistic author Michelle Vines

“Asperger’s on the Inside is an acutely honest and often highly entertaining memoir by Michelle Vines about life with Asperger’s Syndrome. The book follows Michelle in exploring her past and takes the reader with her on her journey to receiving and accepting her diagnosis.” ~ Book description on Amazon. Samantha Craft interviews author Michelle Vines about…

Adults share how recognizing autism changed their lives

Yesterday, I asked community members at @Everyday Aspergers, “How has finding out you are or might be on the autism spectrum changed your life in a beneficial way?” And these were the responses. Having ASD has enriched my life in many ways. ~ Kasey I am an adult autistic diagnosis. The joy and excitement to discover…

#DifferentBetter in Honor of Autism Awareness Month

  Hi All, It’s me Sam, author of Everyday Aspie Blog and Everyday Aspergers Blog (soon to be a book!!!). Here’s a link to my Different Better Story. Besides writing and being a mom to three teenage boys and a neurotic dog, I am a manager at ULTRA Testing, a wonderful technology company started by…

Autistics Share: Professionals Miss the Mark in Recognizing Autism in Women

  I recently asked 60-plus readers from across the globe, who believe they are autistic/Aspie or have been diagnosed with autism/Aspergers, this question: “What has a professional told you when you were seeking out an autism and/or Aspergers diagnosis?” Here are their responses: The first psychologist diagnosed me with Bipolar-II after speaking with me for…