A Different Way to Look at autism spectrum disorder
From the name to a constellation theory
I’m going to propose a new way to look at autism spectrum disorder (ASD) that’s not currently mainstream.
In fact, you’ll find the axiom from Dr. Stephen Short, “If you met one autistic, you’ve met one autistic” in my humble opinion opens the doors very wide.
The Theory
Let me explain, what’s ignored by many is the support required for the person having ASD. While many who would have been called Asperger’s in the DSM-IV are more than likely in need of level 1 support. The reality is there may be many who are what I call level zero support. They may require no support whatsoever to operate in normal society. This could be because of a variety of reasons, but I suggest it’s because their symptoms are not that strong.
Let’s delve deeper into this topic and explore its nuances further. The word “autism” refers to the behaviors and symptoms, while the word “spectrum” shows the level of support needed. This means you don’t have as wide a variety of behaviors and symptoms as one would think, but a limited pool. But a variety of support is required.
As I see it, ASD is a constellation of behaviors, not a spectrum, with varying degrees of severity, leading to diverse presentations. And adding to this, each star of behavior is defined by the local culture and time the person lives in, so this adds to the heterogeneity across the globe.
For example, not looking people in the eye in some African and Asian cultures is considered a norm. We need to remember that acceptable social behaviors are society driven.
Conclusion
Autism is characterized by challenges in social interaction and communication, as well as a tendency for repetitive interests or behaviors. All of which are defined by local cultures.
The brightness of each star determines how much support is needed. And some people may need no help because the brightness is almost non-existent. These people might be subclinical, only triggered by some life events into a clinical version of ASD.
Think of it like a star going supernova.
In theory, we could have a lot of subclinical children just sitting out there ready to go supernova in their lifetime.
This could explain for some lacking childhood presentation while having adult presentation. Basically, as children they were subclinical, but as adults they became clinical.
But there would still be some presentation of behaviors at an early age, just not as many to be counted as clinical. And I doubt there would be such dimness that no behaviors would be present. There would be at least one no matter how minor.
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