(Actually, quite a few harmful myths and stereotypes persist, but today I’m talking about one in particular)
Theory of Mind (ToM)
Despite extensive evidence to the contrary, many “professionals” continue to perpetuate this harmful stereotype that Autistics lack theory of mind.
ToM is defined as,
“The understanding that others have intentions, desires, beliefs, perceptions, and emotions different from one’s own and that such intentions, desires, and so forth affect people’s actions and behaviors.”
ToM is also more simply defined as,
“the ability to understand and take into account another individual’s mental state”.
On a subjective note, I know a lot of Autistic people, and every single one of us has a varying ability to ascribe mental states to others, including individuals who have more significant social challenges.
While Autistic brains work differently from neurotypical brains, therefore we process and express thoughts and emotions differently, this does not mean Autistics lack ToM altogether.
A more accurate way to conceptualize this is akin to cultural and communication differences.
Cultural differences
Where social and communication norms vary between cultures, social and communication styles or expectations vary amongst different neurotypes as well.
Note, this does not mean one culture or style is superior to another, it simply means there are differences.
Dr. Damian Milton described this as The Double Empathy Problem.
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