Diversity Thursday: Autism

What is autism?

‘Autism is a complex and multifaceted neurodevelopmental disorder. Autism and autism spectrum disorders are often also referred to as disorders of information and perception processing, which affect the development of social interaction, communication and behavioural repertoire’ (Autismus Deutschland e. V. 2018).

The term autism is based on the Greek words autos meaning self and ismos meaning state. In the past, a distinction was made between three forms: early childhood autism, atypical autism and Asperger's syndrome. Today, however, the term autism spectrum is more commonly used, as the transitions between the different forms are fluid. In recent years, the term neurodiversity has also gained in importance. This refers to the variety of neurological differences that exist in human brain development. The focus is on diversity instead of on an illness or deficit-oriented way of thinking.

How does autism develop?

It has been scientifically proven that autism is not caused by poor nutrition or vaccinations, nor by the way parents bring up their children. Rather, it is thought to be caused by a combination of factors. In addition to genetic influences, biological processes probably play a role. The causes of autism are still not fully understood.

Approximately 7 million people in Europe and about 800,000 people in Germany live with autism. At this point, the personal and accompanying environment must also be considered, i.e. parents and family, friends and professional companions (e.g. therapists and everyday companions). (Source: autismus Deutschland e.V.)

Like all people, those on the autism spectrum are also unique and individual, and everyone's experience of autism is different. But what does that mean in concrete terms?

People with autism

Those on the autism spectrum can have extraordinary abilities in certain areas such as art, mathematics or technology. Although some characteristics can be found in autistic people, there is no such thing as a classic autistic person or certain characteristics that every autistic person fulfils. Autism manifests itself differently in each person. At the same time, they often experience a world that is overwhelming and difficult to understand. Dealing with social norms and changing situations can be challenging. Therefore, the environment should respond to the special needs of autistic people.

Whether in the lecture hall or at work, it makes a big difference if we are responsive to the needs of people with autism. Even small changes, such as a quiet workplace, a fixed place in the seminar room, clear formulations or flexible breaks, can make a big difference in our studies and careers.

How we (can) create a more inclusive university

The toolkit ‘Inclusive Action in Teaching and in Interaction’ supports university members in their search for information regarding inclusive action in teaching and in general interaction. In addition to information, it provides contact points both within and outside the H-BRS. It can be accessed via this LEA course.

Do you have a disability or chronic illness and are studying at the H-BRS? Do you feel you need support with organisation and communication in your studies and everyday university life? The H-BRS offers students support through an inclusion assistant for this purpose.

Safe space for exchange: Do you have autism and want to talk about your studies and experiences? We offer a safe space where you can feel safe and understood. Our goal is to create a place where all autistic students want to share their experiences. The meetings take place digitally every other month. Information on the date and the meeting link will be published here in advance.

We also offer the Peer Space Inclusive and the Peer Space Queer. You are cordially invited to participate in our Peer Spaces. You can find more information on the Peer Spaces website.

Sources

• Arens-Wiebel, Christiane (2023): Autismus. 2., Überarbeitete Auflage, W. Kohlhammer GmbH.
• Grummt, Marek, und Mechthild Richter (2023): Neurodiversität – Ein inklusiveres, gendergerechtes Konzept?. Neurodiversität und Autismus, Kohlhammer Verlag.
• Autismus: Ursachen, Formen, Früherkennung | gesund.bund.de
• Autismus-Diagnose mit 35 – das Leben neu ordnen | Quarks
• Autismus-Stiftung | Was ist Autismus eigentlich?
• Neurodiversität bei Kindern, Jugendlichen und Erwachsenen | therapie.de
• Neurodiversität: Ist Anderssein normal? | BARMER
• Was ist anders bei Nicole? Begegnung mit einer Autistin | Quarks
• Was ist Autismus | Bundesverband Autismus Deutschland e.V.
• World autism awareness day | Autism Europe
• Zur popkulturellen Herstellung von Autismus-Narrativen in und durch Frontcover | Institut für Demokratie und Zivilgesellschaft

Contact

Do you have any questions, comments or requests? Please feel free to contact us at respekt@h-brs.de.