3 ms·
> I worry that as more and more fully functioning people are added to the spectrum that it will result in less help out there for people like my daughter that r
by ScottBurson 11y ago
> I worry that as more and more fully functioning people are added to the spectrum that it will result in less help out there for people like my daughter that really need it.
Do you actually see this happening?
It seems to me just as likely that greater awareness of the entire spectrum will bring more acceptance and more resources.
Anyway, for my wife, learning that she has Asperger syndrome has been a great relief. It's hard for me to see that as a bad thing. Your story is heart-wrenching, and I hope your daughter gets the help she needs. I just don't see why my wife's experience and yours need to be in conflict.
- autismdad 11y agoI've noticed a huge shift in peoples opinions towards autism since I've had my daughter and I do think it will affect the overall help available to people with autism. The more you add higher functioning people to the spectrum, the more people don't see it as a debilitating mental illness. Whenever I mention to someone these days that my daughter has autism, they don't really get what that means. They say things like "oh, is she really good at math" or "my coworker has autism too". And I'm thinking no she doesn't really understand even the most basic math, she'll likely not ever be able to have a real job, and who's going to take care of her when I'm gone because she needs help all day every day just to get through the day. I strongly believe there needs to be a clear distinction between higher functioning people on the spectrum and the people that are really struggling with the most basic aspects of life. Anyway, I get that people have different opinions, that's just mine. :)