Embracing Neurodiversity: A Critique of Recent Autism Brain Imaging Research
As an autistic trans woman and special education teacher (it does roll off the tongue now, doesn’t it), I was intrigued by the recent article in Health Imaging discussing a study that used diffusion tensor imaging to identify structural brain differences in autistic people. Whilst the research provides valuable insights into the neurological underpinnings of autistic brains, I believe it’s crucial to examine the study through the lens of neurodiversity – the idea, of course, that neurological differences like autism are natural variations in the human genome, not disorders to be cured.
You see, if you’ve been reading this space or my books, you know that I always knew that I was different. I struggled to connect with my peers and had intense interests that consumed my thoughts. It wasn’t until I was diagnosed as an adult that I began to understand and embrace these traits as an integral part of who I am.
As a teacher, I’ve seen firsthand how the prevailing medical model of autism can lead to harmful interventions that aim to make autistic children appear “normal.” I’ve worked with students who have been subjected to therapies that discourage stimming, force eye contact, and prioritise compliance over autonomy. These experiences have left many autistic people traumatised and mistrustful of professionals who claim to have their best interests at heart.
The study’s focus on identifying and potentially “treating” structural brain differences in autism raises concerns about pathologising natural neurological variations. Evolutionary theories like the Solitary Forager Hypothesis suggest that autistic traits, such as heightened sensory perceptions and deep focus, may have been advantageous in ancestral environments.
In modern society, these same traits continue to provide value. Many autistic people excel in fields that require attention to detail, pattern recognition, and creative problem-solving. By viewing autism as a ‘disorder to be corrected,’ we risk losing the unique perspectives and skills that autistic people bring to our communities.
If the study moves forward, it’s essential to prioritise the autonomy and consent of autistic participants. Historically, the autistic community has been subjected to research and interventions without fully understanding the implications or being given the power to opt out. This has led to a deep distrust of the medical and scientific establishment among many autistic individuals.
To rebuild trust, researchers must involve autistic people in the design, execution, and interpretation of studies that impact our community. This means including autistic researchers on their teams, consulting with autistic advocates, and ensuring that participants are fully informed about the potential uses and consequences of the research.
Furthermore, anything developed from this research should focus on supporting autistic people in navigating a predominantly neurotypical world, rather than trying to change our fundamental neurological makeup. This could include developing accommodations for sensory sensitivities, creating inclusive educational and workplace environments, and promoting communication tools that respect our natural ways of interacting.
As a society, we have a choice in how we approach autism research and support the autistic community. We can continue to view autism through a medical lens, pathologising our differences and seeking to eliminate them. Or, we can embrace neurodiversity and recognise the value of autistic traits as part of the rich tapestry of human experience.
To my fellow autistics, I encourage you to speak up and share your experiences. Your voices matter in shaping the narrative around autism and advocating for research and supports that respect our autonomy and celebrate our strengths.
To researchers, I urge you to adopt a neurodiversity framework in your work. Collaborate with autistic individuals, question assumptions about what constitutes a “normal” brain, and focus on developing supportive strategies that enhance our quality of life without trying to change who we are.
And to society as a whole, I ask that you listen to and amplify autistic voices. Challenge your preconceptions about what autism looks like and what autistic people are capable of. Embrace the diversity of human neurology and create a world where all individuals, regardless of neurotype, can thrive.