TW: ABA, CBT, interventions, behavioralism, fake “cures”, restraints, institutionalization, murder of autistic youth, functioning labels

a tool is something that you control, either on your own or in conjunction with others, consensually.

a cure (including “cures” that don’t work) is a solution to a problem. it’s goal is to make whatever the presumed problem is – in this case, “autism” – go away. a cure can be chosen, but also, is frequently prescribed, if not forced or coerced.

given that autism isn’t a problem (and more specifically, a disease, injury, or despite the nomenclature, a “disorder”), but a type of neurology (as well as the social context surrounding that neurology), all “cures” for autism are in the “doesn’t work” category. some so-called “cures” may be helpful in relation to our support needs (or in the case of things like ABA, definitely not helpful) as disabled people – but again, that’s a tool, not a cure.

understanding the difference between the two is really important, especially for disabled people, as well as those who provide support for us. consider:

• ABA: “cure”
• toxic autism “remedies”: “cure”
• CBT: both “cure” and tool (it depends on usage and context)
• self-regulation: tool
• interests: tool
• music therapy: both tool and “cure” (although depending on the practictioner, neurological support is probably more appropriate than cure)
• occupational therapy (OT): tool, solution/support, “cure” (especially if the OT is focused on “fixing stims”, rather than self-regulation.)

there’s a lot of bad information (and even worse practices) that come down to thinking that things that we do naturally, need to be fixed or “cured”. including in ways that can be trauma-inducing, even fatal.

this gets back to the need for self-advocacy. more specifically, support needs, as well as the ability to make our own choices about what those supports are.

consider this statement:

"High functioning" is used to deny support.

"Low functioning" is used to deny agency.

— Ellen (@ellenfromnowon) March 9, 2016

“”High functioning” is used to deny support.

“Low functioning” is used to deny agency.”

our support needs vary from situation to situation, over time.

the common denominator though is tools, as opposed to cures.

this is a huge issue for us, and could stand to undergo a fundamental shift in thinking. especially among allistic, ableist professionals who are providing education and support for us, but also, among each other in our community at times.

here’s to making that happen. ✊🏽