Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is an ineffective family of “therapies” with a dark, disturbing origin, which I’ve written about several times. Notice that ABA is not named Applied Behavior Therapy. It’s not what I’d consider therapy and it isn’t really presented to parents and caregivers as therapy. Mental health therapies help…
Month: April 2021
Autistics struggle because most people have more social skills and extroverts with social skills lead most communities. By the age of six, teachers can accurately predict which students will be successful. That’s true in various nations, on several continents. Research has found, time and again, that the mastery of cultural norms…
“Never publicly discuss your job hunt,” I have been advised by colleagues with the best of intentions. I’d offer the same advice to my students, or any other job seekers. However, other autistics, their families, friends, and allies need to know what it is like for an autistic adult. The…
Podcast Episode 0063; Season 04, Episode 27; April 20, 2021 John Ordover is a man of many talents. A creative consultant, a writer, an editor, and a stand-up comic. He’s even appeared as an extra in some of my favorite television shows. John also advocates for the autistic community as the father of an…
“What has changed since you started blogging in 2007?” The question from a Facebook follower prompted me to skim the older posts and compare them to now. What has changed over 13 years and a bit? What has remained the same? Have my attitudes changed dramatically, or only a little?…
I have started and stopped work on a memoir repeatedly since 2007. For the last few weeks, I have been attempting to resurrect the work, in part because readers of this blog, listeners to the podcast, and social media followers continue to ask for such a work. It is doubtful more…
“The world isn’t designed for the neurodiverse,” is a claim I read over and over on social media. “It’s made for neurotypicals.” Another variation uses “autistics” and “allistics” instead of neurodiverse and neurotypical, but not every non-autistic (allistic) is neurotypical, so I’m not sure that works as well at conveying…
A Facebook follower asked why I do not use “Au” after my name to indicate I support the Au manifesto, the Autism Union statement of ideals. Do I not support the 10 points? Do I not like the community members? Is there something wrong with Au? What does the Âû…
Autistics relying on self-diagnosis concern me, but not for the reasons readers might assume. The cost of a diagnostic assessment prevents too many people from getting the help they need and deserve. Distinguish between not liking that people have no choice but self-diagnose and my concerns that self-diagnoses aren’t sufficient…
Podcast Episode 0062; Season 04, Episode 26; April 2, 2021 It’s that time of year again. Yes, it’s time for my annual rant against Autism Awareness Month and all that goes with it. Though, personally, blue is one of my favorite colors so I’d like to keep the blue. Darn, I…