Graphic made by:http://musingsofanaspie.com/2014/05/26/autismisnotacrime-flash-blog/ This is part of Gretchen Leary's Flashblog Autism is Not a Crime: https://gretchenleary.wordpress.com/2014/05/25/flash-blog-time-aspergers-autism/
Friends and family tend to shelter me from any news about Aspies/ Autistics committing crimes or being accused of doing them because of their neurological difference. I usually find out anyway, and it's a form of deep prejudice to decide that a crime is based on a neurological wiring. It's like accusing a different race of more crimes...when really demographic, environment, and deep motivation matter more in the long run. All people are in need of help at some point, unfortunately some do not recognize this need themselves and bad things happen.
People who have "no friends" or are "quiet" tend to get the brunt of accusations in shootings or acts of violence, even when the same acts in history have been committed by people with "many friends" and of whom were "extroverted." It's easier to blame some sort of quirk or point out the less social norms for a reason than to realize that bad things happen to good people or that sometimes something snaps, or that there is not always a clear motive. Susan Cain's book "Quiet"(link) goes a long way in stopping the myths that quiet people are the violent people. Assuming quiet people are the future violent people is another prejudice stereotype that does no one good.
Since I am Autistic/ Aspie I wanted to "normalize" Aspergers/Autism...because there are so many misunderstandings of what it means to be an Aspie/ Autistic. The fact is that sometimes we DO need more help in life in some daily activities due to sensory overload or anxiety or depression or dyspraxia or ADD (each Aspie is different in these traits), however, we give back to the world in ways that are inspiring, artistic, genius, and encouraging in many ways. It's ableist to assume otherwise.
The ways we give back to the world may not be as obvious in day to day life but study a list of renowned Autistics and you will see the varied unique ways we contribute. Like some NT's (not on the spectrum or normal people) there are some violent Aspies...but it is rare, especially considering the population of Aspies as opposed to NT's and the percentage of violence in both categories. The stats speak for themselves. We do have varied forms of meltdowns but most are not meant to harm anyone. In general, Aspies give to the world in unique, funny, refreshing and original ways. We would not be communicating on computers without Aspies. Nor would we enjoy many philosophical debates, beautifully written prose, or humorous antidotes without many Autistics. I feel this must be said because of the recent judgments and misconceptions that have been given to Autistics/Aspies.
It is very rare for an Autistic to not be safe, innocent and pure of heart. In the news we hear the horror stories but most often, there are other factors at work that should be exposed. Typically these horrid situations involve tumultuous upbringing and lack of support. But it's easier to blame a difference then look at all the many factors that went wrong. The very stats speak for themselves; the number of Autistic people that commit crimes in the overall population of Autistics versus the number of Neurotypical people that commit crimes in their overall population makes the issue stunningly clear. Autism does not create violence. If an Aspie, Introvert, Extrovert or Neurotypical commits a violent act there are always other factors involved and the wiring of their personality should NEVER be blamed or feared. I do not fear Neurotypicals even though I may not always understand them and they should not fear Autistics. Introverts should not fear Extroverts and Extroverts should not fear Introverts for possible violent crimes. These are ridiculous judgements.
My heart goes out to all the victims of the many crimes around the world, both hidden and publicized. Every day women, children and men are killed intentionally. Some we hear of, most we don't. My heart grieves for the travesty and for the families of both killer and victim. I can't justify violence in my soul or heart. To me it makes no feasible sense. I long to heal the world and I hope by doing my part that I can at least make a little haven of peace somehow in the world I help create.
All any of us can do is be responsible in looking after our own, in this world we help create. You are responsible to be the change you wish to see in the world. You can only do your part and hope to God that mercy and grace will prevail in the end. Always hope but remember that we must make our place better and that change starts within ourselves.
Wishing you peace and healing today;
NOTE: Autism can cause sensory issues or anxiety which can cause meltdowns and outbursts. If there is violence it is due to an environment or something not being addressed with the person- not the actually neurological wiring. Violent outbursts can happen but often are a result of additional issues that need to be solved. To see more on meltdowns click here: http://worldwecreate.blogspot.ca/2014/07/dealing-with-and-understanding.html
*To see more thoughts on Autism/ Aspieness click on the Autism/Asperger's label below...there are posts
