Document Type

Article

Publication Date

6-14-2024

Keywords

Autistic joy, depression, autism, happy stimming

Abstract

Autistic joy is a unique sense of euphoria that has been pervasively under-researched and undervalued in the medical and academic communities for decades. Autistic joy is the counterbalance to the thoroughly studied and pathologized melt and shutdowns experienced by autistic people, yet not seen as a valid tool in managing or preventing said melt/shutdowns. The science behind it has not been researched, while depression in autistic people is the subject of countless studies. This data gap harms people in and outside of the community, as knowledge about the chemical processes involved could prove useful in managing depression in the allistic community. Failing to see autistic joy as an asset and viewing autistic people from a deficits-based lens in general further disenfranchises the community. Autistic joy has been an integral part of the neurotype's definition since it was first formally identified in 1943 and continues to be a powerful aspect of the identity and community today.

Type

Text

Rights

Copying of this document in whole or in part is allowable only for scholarly purposes. It is understood, however, that any copying or publication of this document for commercial purposes, or for financial gain, shall not be allowed without the author’s written permission.

Language

English

Format

application/pdf

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