Before delving into the world of research, Aimee Grant dedicated six years of her life as a caregiver in Cornwall, England, providing support to autistic adults in group homes. It wasn’t until she formed a friendship with an autistic colleague at a sociology conference over a decade later that she realized she, too, was autistic.
Receiving her diagnosis in 2019 was a turning point for Grant, leading her to completely reevaluate her life. She embraced her autism and began working with her unique mind rather than against it. Grant no longer felt the need to mask her autistic traits to fit in with friends and family, and she started utilizing accommodations at work, such as a light filter for her computer screen.
Today, as a dedicated public health researcher at Swansea University in Wales, Grant is on a mission to explore the authentic experiences of autistic individuals. While many in the scientific and clinical community view autism as a developmental disorder that impairs social interactions, Grant believes this perspective oversimplifies the diverse nature of autism. She argues that the real challenges faced by autistic individuals stem from societal misconceptions and a lack of support, rather than their inherent traits.
Aligned with the principles of the neurodiversity movement, Grant sees autism not as a deficiency, but as a unique cognitive perspective that deserves recognition and acceptance. She acknowledges her own disabilities, including dyslexia and the use of a wheelchair, but emphasizes that in a more inclusive environment, being autistic wouldn’t necessarily be a hindrance. It is the rigid expectations of neurotypical society that create barriers for autistic individuals.
With a fresh approach to research, Grant is posing a fundamental question: What do autistic individuals truly need?
2024-04-19 08:30:00
Originally posted on www.sciencenews.org