Unmasking Autism: Discovering the New Faces of Neurodiversity

Alexithymia is a condition often associated with Autism, in which an individual has difficulty identifying and describing their emotions. Price contends that this condition may arise in Autistic individuals because they aren’t given the proper tools to understand their emotions and because they are conditioned to put others’ needs above their own.

The term “allistic” is used to describe individuals who are not on the Autism spectrum. In Unmasking Autism, Prices also uses the term neurotypical, but clarifies that allistic is a more specific term, one that describes someone who is not Autistic, and so a person could be allistic while also being neurodivergent.

The Americans with Disabilities Act is a landmark civil rights law in the United States that prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities in all areas of public life. In the context of Autism and neurodiversity, the ADA is significant as it provides legal groundwork for accommodations and accessibility, aiming to ensure that individuals with disabilities, including those who are Autistic, have equal rights and opportunities. However, Price argues that the ADA does not go far enough to accommodate Autistic people and that it is difficult to enforce.

Price portrays Autism as a neurological and developmental variation characterized by distinct social, communicative, and behavioral patterns. Price views Autism not as a disorder to be cured but as a natural and valuable part of human diversity. While he characterizes it as a disability, he clarifies that it is society’s failure to accommodate and understand Autistic individuals that renders Autistics disabled. The book emphasizes understanding Autism within the framework of neurodiversity, focusing on the unique strengths and perspectives of Autistic individuals rather than solely on challenges or deficits.

Fawning is a trauma response in which an individual excessively pleases or appeases others to avoid conflict or rejection. Price explains that this is a typical trauma response shown by Autistic people.

In the context of the book, “high functioning” is a controversial term often used to describe Autistic individuals who can mask their symptoms and navigate mainstream society more easily. Price argues that this term can overlook the challenges these individuals face.

The term “low functioning,” like “high functioning,” is controversial. It is typically used to describe Autistic individuals with more visible or significant challenges in daily functioning, but Price argues that the term can underestimate an Autistic person’s capabilities and contributions.

Masking is a concept central to the book. It refers to the conscious or subconscious efforts of Autistic individuals to hide or suppress their Autistic traits to conform to societal norms and expectations. This can include mimicking neurotypical behaviors, hiding stimming behaviors, or forcing oneself to make eye contact. Price explores the emotional and mental health toll that masking can take on Autistic individuals, including increased exhaustion, anxiety, and a loss of personal identity.

Neurodiversity is a foundational concept in Unmasking Autism. It is a perspective that views neurological variations, including Autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and others, as natural and normal variations in the human brain. Neurodiversity advocates for the acceptance and accommodation of these neurological differences rather than viewing them as deficits that need to be corrected or cured. Price’s book is grounded in promoting neurodiversity and shifting societal attitudes toward a more inclusive understanding of neurological differences.

Neurotypical, often abbreviated as NT, is used to describe individuals whose neurological development and functioning are consistent with societal standards of “normal.” While neurotypicality is accepted as the societal standard, Price emphasizes that neurotypicality is not inherently better or a more valuable way to be.

Special interests refer to the intense, highly focused areas of interest often observed in Autistic individuals. These interests can vary widely in topic and can be a source of immense joy, expertise, and comfort for those on the spectrum. Price discusses how special interests are a positive aspect of Autism, countering the pathologizing narrative often associated with them.