Why Does Society Treat Autistic People with Fear?

Autistic individuals are often perceived as intense, cryptic, and subversive, which contributes to their being treated with fear and misunderstanding by society. This

Autistic Perception vs. Societal Expectations

When a group of typically developing individuals experiences a wave of panic, they are likely to fall into herd behavior as a protective response. However, a high-functioning autistic person may approach this situation with a unique perspective, scrutinizing the panic's validity without necessarily addressing it until another source brings it up.

It is important to recognize that this fear is not about one group being more or less right. It stems from the underappreciated value of being wrong and the societal misunderstandings surrounding autism.

Awareness and Misunderstandings

My personal experience has shown that society often confuses autism with mental retardation. When I was a child, I received poor treatment, although I don't recall anyone being specifically afraid of me. This perception likely stemmed from society's broader misunderstandings about autism.

The fundamental issue lies in the fact that autistic individuals view the world differently from non-autistic individuals. This difference can be daunting for those accustomed to a more conventional approach to understanding and interacting with others.

The Outsider Role

Autistic people do not fall victim to groupthink, which means they are not part of the social norm. This outsider status makes them appear different and potentially threatening. The fear of the unknown is deeply ingrained in human nature, leading to an instinctual dislike and suspicion of those who look or behave differently.

Furthermore, society tends to categorize people into neat, predictable boxes, which is challenging with autistic individuals due to their unique traits. This societal tendency to classify people contributes to the biases that harm various groups, including those on the autism spectrum.

Educating and Understanding Autism

One way to overcome this fear and misunderstanding is through education. Getting acquainted with what autism is and how it affects people's lives can be incredibly impactful. High-functioning individuals with autism can learn appropriate social skills, as demonstrated by Dr. Temple Grandin in her autobiography, detailing her struggles to master social interactions.

In summary, the fear and reluctance to engage with autistic individuals stem from a combination of misunderstanding and societal biases. By educating ourselves and fostering a more inclusive environment, we can improve the lives of autistic individuals and promote a more tolerant and accepting society.