So, this study shows that autistic toddlers may (small sample size, needs replication, etc) have brains where sensory networks are more connected than the brains of NT toddlers. I want to talk about how these findings are presented. (1/7) spectrumnews.org/news/sensory-n…
The autistic toddlers’ brains have more connections in sensory networks. They are "overconnected." God forbid we ever have a neutral or even positive difference. If there were less, we’d be “underconnected.” The right amount of connections is the number the NT brain makes. (2/7)
But even more troubling is this quote from the lead investigator. "Their brain is busy with things it shouldn’t be busy with.”
This is how she chooses to characterize results that may help explain and validate the sensory experiences many autistic people report. (3/7)
This is how she chooses to characterize results that may help explain and validate the sensory experiences many autistic people report. (3/7)
Not, their brains are busy with different things. Not, they are having a different/more intense sensory experience. Not, this gives us a better understanding of how autistic toddlers might experience the world. Not, this has implications for supporting autistic kids. (4/7)
"Their brain is busy with things it shouldn't be busy with."
This wording reflects deeply ingrained thought patterns and subconscious beliefs which influence autism research at every step of the way. This researcher is not unique. This is common. This is pervasive. (5/7)
This wording reflects deeply ingrained thought patterns and subconscious beliefs which influence autism research at every step of the way. This researcher is not unique. This is common. This is pervasive. (5/7)
“Their brain is busy with things it shouldn’t be busy with.” (6/7)
We have a long way to go. (7/7)
