Unmasking Autism
Book Review
Devon Price provides a barrage of illuminating perspective on Autism as well as the correlating psychological disfunction that can exist in those that are on the autism spectrum due to, among other reasons, the unfair societal load placed upon them. Price truly does deliver a masterpiece on self-care, self-discovery, and self-integration which naturally applies to people with autism, but to people in general.
Concerning your view of autism, Devon Price will likely reframe it, and give life to a new, vibrant view of autism that is long overdue. Many autistic people who do not fit society’s stereotype spent most of their lives not even knowing about their own autism yet chronically struggling to cope with a society meant for neurotypical people, and then finally realizing their non-stereotypical autism and what this means for their own well-being.
On the other hand, Dr. Price also spends quite a bit of time with the reality of those who have long understood their autism, stereotypical or not, and the usual masking of their true selves so they can live in a world that is unfriendly to them and their needs. Price also skillfully describes how this places a double burden on many autistic people. Because many autistic people are expected to follow societal rules that are meant for neurotypical people, they have to deny their own needs as an autistic person while at the same time live by rules that are not good for them - thus a double burden.
My one concern with Devon Price’s book is that he discusses autistic people in BDSM and sex worker life styles in a way that I consider is too normalizing. I consider this a minor element in the book, but I do believe it is worth mentioning.
For many people autism is a terrifying reality that they would reject for themselves or for their loved ones. Devon Price gives autism life and vibrancy that many people would have never thought possible. He helps you peal away destructive stigmas and take an honest look at at how being authentic with autism is actually liberating instead of terrifying.
I am nuts about books. I read on all kinds of topics. I attempt to review each book I read for the sake of my own enrichment as well as conversation starters with others.
You never know what you will find in an attic! Usually there is a hodgepodge of things buried under dust.
Most of what is included here are notes to myself. The majority of folks will not find interest in these posts.