Neurotypicals and Autistic Privilege: Misunderstandings and Implications
Consider the phenomenon where neurotypical individuals often navigate society seemingly immune to the awareness that they wield an influential role. It's a perspective that challenges accepted narratives on privilege, where everyone, regardless of background, struggles with their own set of societal challenges.
What is Privilege?
Privilege, in a social context, denotes advantages that certain groups enjoy simply due to their social status, race, gender, or other factors. Neurotypical individuals face inherent advantages that autistic people might not share, such as a more widely accepted social understanding and regular societal recognition.
A Daily Reality of Interaction
Neurotypical and autistic individuals interact every day, yet this interaction doesn’t always highlight the underlying power dynamics. Neurotypical dominance often translates into societal norms and standards, often forcing autistic individuals to adapt, even if inadvertently.
Perspective and Awareness
It’s not uncommon for neurotypical individuals, like myself, to be blissfully unaware of this inherent privilege. This lack of awareness perpetuates a cycle of unchallenged societal norms, where autistic individuals face a double-edged sword: challenges due to misunderstanding and the expectation to change their behaviors to fit neurotypical norms.
Understanding Marginalization
Being neurotypical does not necessarily equate to a position of power or privilege. While it is true that wealth and social status can create an upper hand in society, neurotypical individuals can still contribute to a harmful environment that marginalizes autistic people. The stigma against autism perpetuates self-fulfilling prophecies, where the stereotype becomes reality due to repeated messaging and societal reinforcement.
The Concept of Privilege Hazard
Privilege Hazard, a concept introduced by Catherine Dignazio and Lauren Klein in their book Data Feminism, refers to a situation where individuals in privileged positions remain unaware of their inherent advantages. This lack of awareness further perpetuates societal inequalities.
In the context of neurotypical and autistic interactions, this privilege hazard can lead to misinterpretations of each other's experiences. Neurotypical individuals may unintentionally dismiss or underestimate the challenges faced by autistic individuals, thereby exacerbating their marginalization.
Social Reform and Equality
To address these issues, social reform towards equality is crucial. Efforts should be directed towards acknowledging and understanding the privilege that neurotypical individuals hold. By recognizing this privilege, we can work towards a society where both neurotypical and autistic individuals can thrive without the burden of predetermined limitations.
Conclusion
Neurotypical privilege, when unrecognized, can perpetuate harm to the autistic community. It is essential to examine and address these issues to foster a more inclusive and equitable society. By challenging and reshaping our perceptions, we can work towards a future where everyone, regardless of neurotype, can be valued and respected.