My BIGGEST Pet Peeve: "Everybody Has Autism"


 Hello everybody!  I'd like to talk to you about a pet peeve of mine that I feel like is important to address.  It bugs me tremendously whenever I tell someone I have autism and they tell me, "everybody has autism".   Now, if you've said this, know that you're not in trouble or that I hate you.  It's just harmful and hurtful when someone says that.

If you are saying this phrase, think about it.  Autism is a social and communication disorder that impacts each person differently.  Saying that everyone has autism can come off as ableist.  People who say things like this in my experience don't know much about autism or don't even know the impact of what they've just said.  When I'm told this, I immediately and politely correct people and tell them how that comes across.  I'll sometimes tell them to say that "everyone can have some autistic traits, but that doesn't mean everyone has it".  Autism is mostly a social and communication disability.  People with an autism diagnosis struggle more with socializing and communicating than people who don't have autism.

So the next time you feel tempted to say "everyone has autism," please take a moment to consider what that really means. Autism is a valid diagnosis that comes with real struggles, strengths, and differences, it’s not something everyone experiences. By being mindful with our words, we can help create a more inclusive and respectful world for autistic people like me.


 If you liked this blog post, PLEASE comment down below what your favorite part was, share with your friends and family, etc.  Have any comments, questions, etc. about what you were reading? Reach out to me by messaging me on Instagram or TikTok @neurospicyblondie or email me  alyssa.onthespectrum@gmail.com.  


 

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