num_pages: 304
description: A deep dive into the spectrum of Autistic experience and the phenomenon of masked Autism giving individuals the tools to safely uncover their true selves while broadening societys narrow understanding of neurodiversityA remarkable work that will stand at the forefront of the neurodiversity movement.Barry M. Prizant PhD CCC-SLP author of Uniquely A Different Way of Seeing AutismFor every visibly Autistic person you meet there are countless masked Autistic people who pass as neurotypical. Masking is a common coping mechanism in which Autistic people hide their identifiably Autistic traits in order to fit in with societal norms adopting a superficial personality at the expense of their mental health. This can include suppressing harmless stims papering over communication challenges by presenting as unassuming and mild-mannered and forcing themselves into situations that cause severe anxiety all so they arent seen as needy or odd. In Unmasking Autism  Dr. Devon Price shares his personal experience with masking and blends history social science research prescriptions and personal profiles to tell a story of neurodivergence that has thus far been dominated by those on the outside looking in. For Dr. Price and many others Autism is a deep source of uniqueness and beauty. Unfortunately living in a neurotypical world means it can also be a source of incredible alienation and pain. Most masked Autistic individuals struggle for decades before discovering who they truly are. They are also more likely to be marginalized in terms of race gender sexual orientation class and other factors which contributes to their suffering and invisibility. Dr. Price lays the groundwork for unmasking and offers exercises that encourage self-expression  Celebrating special interests Cultivating Autistic relationships Reframing Autistic stereotypes And rediscovering your valuesIts time to honor the needs diversity and unique strengths of Autistic people so that they no longer have to maskand its time for greater public acceptance and accommodation of difference. In embracing neurodiversity we can all reap the rewards of nonconformity and learn to live authentically Autistic and neurotypical people alike.
language: English
title: Unmasking Autism: Discovering the New Faces of Neurodiversity
publisher: Harmony