Weaponized Autism?
In researching the works of a particular academic, I came across the term “weaponized autism” in a couple of studies where he was a co-author. I had no idea this term existed, what it meant, or why it might be important to know. So, over a coffee, I took a dive. After reading, I felt like I needed a shower. I was rather disgusted by what I found.
The term “weaponized autism” seemingly originated in alt-right online spaces to refer to harnessing perceived talents and vulnerabilities of autistic people to advance their agenda. It portrays autistic people as all-powerful technology experts who lack social skills.
The first study I found analyzed use of “weaponized autism” on the platform Gab. It found the term used mainly by non-autistic users to glorify autistic people’s abilities whilst also being derogatory. Only a small portion of posts there were by autistic users. Sadly, some autistic users embraced the identity for the community’s partial acceptance.
The second study examined how self-identified autistic incels understand autism. It found most view autism negatively as an inescapable barrier to relationships. Some internalize stigma. A few critically examine societal ableism. Many mobilize ableism to blame women for rejection, fueling misogyny.
Viewed together, the term “weaponized autism” emerged from and reinforces stereotypes. For alt-right groups, it justifies exploiting autistic people. Some autistic people may accept the identity for a sense of belonging. But it propagates broader stigma and fails to recognize neurodiversity.
Consider the implications
For some autistic people, embracing the identity of a “weaponized autist” may seem to offer a sense of belonging and purpose otherwise lacking in their lives. The alt-right groups propagating this concept often glorify the talents of “weaponized autists” in ways that broader society does not. However, accepting this moniker has concerning implications. Internalizing these stereotypes as part of one’s identity can enable self-stigma and ableism. Further, identifying with a term glorified by extremist groups risks increased exposure to radicalizing influences. Whilst the promise of acceptance and purpose is understandable, adopting the “weaponized autist” label ultimately serves to propagate societal stigma against autistic people.
It is critical that parents closely monitor the online activities of young autistic people to protect them from potentially harmful influences like alt-right radicalization. Whilst interactions on sites like Gab may seem distant or insignificant, some autistic youth are especially vulnerable to getting drawn into these spaces. Many autistic individuals are alexithymic, meaning difficulty identifying, describing, and/or sourcing their own emotions. This can make it harder to process complex emotional content online and leave autistic youth susceptible to conspiracy theories or extremist rhetoric that provides a sense of purpose. Even without fully embracing ideologies, they may get incrementally immersed in online worlds very different from real-life interactions.
Caregivers should have open and ongoing conversations with autistic children about online safety and radicalization risks. Being aware of which sites or forums they frequent allows parents to identify any concerning changes in behaviour or language. Whilst respecting privacy, directly looking through devices and internet history may be warranted given the stakes.
Signs like sudden intense interests in alt-right figures, use of related insider language, or expressions of violent views should prompt immediate action. Parents can set technology restrictions, increase supervision, and pursue professional supports if needed. With compassion and vigilance, parents can keep autistic youth safe online and prevent radicalization.
… now for that shower.