A Reflective Question to Ponder is a central part of my advocacy work that challenges people to confront their assumptions about autism, neurodivergence, and the systems that define and control us. These questions aren’t meant to offer easy answers, but to provoke discomfort, spark critical thought, and invite dialogue that centers autistic perspectives. By asking what most people are afraid to ask, or haven’t yet considered, I aim to shift the narrative from compliance and observation to truth, justice, and liberation.
If autism resists neat categories, why do so many professionals continue to insist on rigid labels and levels of support as if they capture the full experience?
Could the urge to categorize autistic people say more about society’s need for control and predictability than about autism itself?
How might categorizing autistic people reinforce stereotypes rather than illuminate the depth and diversity of autistic experiences?
In what ways do diagnostic categories risk silencing or erasing autistic voices that don’t fit the expected narrative?
*** BONUS QUESTIONS***
What power dynamics are at play when non-autistic systems decide how autism should be defined, organized, or classified?
How might letting go of categories altogether change how autistic people are understood, supported, and valued in society?
My aim for this post is to foster a fruitful dialogue where people can explore others' perspectives to better understand why they hold those perspectives. All responses are valid, and I ask that this remain a judgement-free zone (this means no personal attacks or derogatory comments). If you leave a perspective, please do ask for others' perspectives. I value and reflect on all responses and may write about my experience with this post but will never identify anyone or use others' comments without express written permission.
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