Unmasking Autism: Discovering the New Faces of Neurodiversity

by Devon Price

“I really looked into it, but it turns out I’m not Autistic,” she said. “Was I depressed and anxious at that time, because my job was horrible and my kid was suffering? Yes, absolutely. But from raising my daughter I’ve learned I’m very not Autistic. I just happen to love an Autistic lifestyle.”

Key Qualities of the Redemptive Self[4] Generative Works to improve the world, or benefit future generations Sensitive Cares about the needs of others, and is concerned by social injustice Committed to Values Develops their own set of core beliefs and values, which guide their behavior throughout their lifetime Balances Independence with Connection Has a strong sense of one’s own agency and power, but also connects meaningfully with other people and recognizes we are all interdependent

It’s striking to me how compatible the redemptive self is with the process of unmasking. The redemptive self essentially is an unmasked Autistic self: unashamed of one’s sensitivity, profoundly committed to one’s values, passionately driven by the causes ones cares about, strong enough to self-advocate, and vulnerable enough to seek connection and aid.

A person with an integrated, redemptive sense of self knows who they are, and isn’t ashamed of it. They’re able to resolve life’s tensions in an authentic way th...

Value #1: Candor What this value means to me: Honestly sharing how I feel and the way I see things. Sharing observations that might not be convenient, but which are true and important to hear. Being honest with myself about who I am, who I enjoy spending time with, and what I want out of life. Speaking out when I see someone being mistreated.

Value #2: Courage What this value means to me: Trusting my intuition and being willing to take risks. Standing up for my beliefs even when they are unpopular. Enthusiastically, passionately saying “yes” to the things that I want, instead of searching for excuses to say “no.” Letting my emotions be loud and bold. Taking up space, and taking a huge, hungry bite out of life.