Are Aspies Really More Likely to Be LGBT?
The association between autism and LGBT identity is a topic that has garnered significant attention in recent years. Many individuals within the autism community, particularly those on the Asperger's spectrum, report a higher likelihood of identifying as LGBT. This phenomenon can be attributed to a variety of factors, including societal pressure and the natural inclination to question societal norms when one does not fit within traditional expectations.
Controversies and Misconceptions
Gender Norms and Autism: Some suggest that those who do not follow strict gender norms are unfairly accused of autism. This misattribution can occur because maintaining a gender-typical appearance is often seen as a sign of good self-awareness. However, this perspective is overwhelmingly unfair, as it overlooks the diverse experiences of individuals who do not fit societal expectations.
Social Stigma and Mislabeling: There is another phenomenon where people facing discrimination and stigma are labeled as socially awkward. This label is not based on their actual behavior but rather on how they are perceived by others. For example, homophobia is a prime example of this, where straight individuals can be bothered by LGBT individuals, leading to unnecessary labels and discriminative behaviors.
The Desire for Acceptance
Acceptance and Identity: The desire for acceptance can be seen as the Achilles heel for many individuals, including those with autism. Many in the LGBT community are facing backlash from the heterosexual community, leading some autistic individuals to reevaluate their own identity. The thought process goes something like this: If being LGBT leads to acceptance, maybe I too can find a place in society.
Neurodivergence and Societal Expectations
Neurodivergence and Social Norms: Neurodivergent individuals, including those on the Asperger's spectrum, often face societal expectations that do not align with their natural tendencies. This discordance can lead to questioning of societal norms and a greater likelihood of non-heteronormative preferences. Left-handed people, for instance, also face similar challenges in a predominantly right-handed world.
Incidence of Non-Hetero Preferences: Studies suggest that neurodivergent individuals are more likely to disregard societal heteronormativity and follow their true desires. This phenomenon is closely tied to the notion that many neurotypical individuals do not truly come out until later in life when they realize they have been programmed to be someone they are not. This realization can happen when one feels comfortable enough to be themselves, often due to societal changes that reduce homophobia and promote acceptance.
The Role of Societal Change
Social Indicators and Coming Out: As society moves away from deeply ingrained hatred and discrimination against LGBT identities, younger generations are more likely to come out earlier. This phenomenon is attributed to the increasing acceptance and safety provided by modern society. As more individuals feel secure in their expressions of identity, we see a rise in coming-out rates among younger people.
Conclusion: Understanding the Link
The association between Aspies and LGBT identities is complex and multifaceted. It is influenced by societal pressures, individual desires to question norms, and the growing acceptance of diverse identities. While there is not a definitive answer to why this association exists, it is clear that many neurodivergent individuals are drawn to challenges and non-heteronormative expressions of identity that are not typically overshadowed by cultural programming.