Internalized Ableism
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Hey all! We’re back this week to discuss internalized ableism and the ways in which stigma and public perception contribute to this pervasive form of discrimination. Overall, internalized ableism perpetuates a cycle of harm by reenforcing ableist beliefs and practices, undermining the well-being of autistic individuals, and hindering efforts towards acceptance and inclusivity [1].
Before jumping in to discuss internalized ableism, it is critical to understand ableism in general—
Ableism is the systemic, typically unconscious, devaluation of individuals with disabilities based on societal expectations for “typically abled” individuals [1]. Ableism is a form of discrimination/prejudice based on the perception that being neurotypical and able-bodied is “normal” [1]. Examples of ableism in society are pervasive- whether this be in physical barriers such as lack of wheelchair ramp access for buildings and transportation, or in communication barriers such as a lack of accessibility with braille or American Sign Language [1]. However, ableism is also present in less overt ways, such as through the use of language, assumptions, and in the representation of other individuals with disabilities in the media [1]. For autistic individuals, ableism can present itself in various ways- for example, by a teacher insisting that a student “fit in” and “behave normal” or by a family member insisting that autism is something for their loved one to “overcome” (as opposed to it being a fundamental part of their identity) [1].
Harmful effects of ableism
Ableism is incredibly harmful and damaging towards individuals with disabilities as it paints a picture that they are “less than” because of their disability [1]. One of the most harmful impacts of this stigma for autistic individuals in particular is the internalization of this narrative that they are “wrong” and not “normal” for how they experience the world [1]. As a result, internalized ableism can lead to negative health outcomes including decreased self-esteem and self-worth, increased anxiety and depression, and reduced care seeking behavior (e.g. out of fear that they will be seen as a burden, incapable, etc.) [1].
Internalized ableism
When disabled individuals begin believing the negative stereotypes and prejudices against them, this is known as internalized ableism [1]. Internalized ableism can negatively impact an individual’s mental health, for example by decreasing their self-esteem and self-worth [1]. Additionally, they may see themselves as inferior or less important/valuable as a result of these perceptions [1]. For autistic individuals, internalized ableism can manifest in a variety of ways- for example, they might feel a sense of shame or discomfort in their autism-related traits (such as stimming) and might feel the need to mask more when in social settings [1]. This can create an internal battle of sorts, where autistic individuals are struggling to fit in in a neurotypical world and are met with increased emotional and cognitive stress as a result [1]. Subsequently, autistic individuals might experience feelings of worthlessness or feel that they are a burden to others [1]. It is important to note that internalized ableism is not a personal failing, rather it is a response to systemic ableism and living in a neurotypical, able-bodied world where the public/society does not seem to understand, accept, or accommodate neurodivergent, disabled individuals [1].
Perpetuation of harmful stereotypes and stigma
As noted above, a harmful outcome of ableism is the internalization of such beliefs by the disabled individual- which is one example of how ableism perpetuates harmful stereotypes and stigma towards disabled individuals [1]. In addition to this, internalized ableism also creates barriers to inclusivity and accessibility across different contexts (i.e. school, workplace, healthcare, and media) [1]. It is also important to consider the higher rates of mental health conditions among autistics, as internalized ableism could be one of many contributing factors to this disparity [1].
Ways to combat internalized ableism—
Education on ableism, disabilities, and neurodiversity: Education and continued research on ableism, disabilities, and neurodiversity are important as they can help foster understanding and inclusion. It is also important to combat harmful stereotypes and discrimination by understanding that autism and other forms of neurodivergence are not a defect. [1].
Self-acceptance and disability pride: Encouraging self-acceptance involves promoting the understanding that being autistic is part of one’s identity that comes with its own strengths and challenges. Moreover, it is important to promote acceptance in broader society by challenging the stereotypes of ableism and by understanding and respecting autistic individuals. [1].
Mental health support: It is crucial that autistic individuals have access to mental health care and support given the higher rates of mental health conditions among ND individuals. It is also important for disabled individuals to have access to mental health care, as they may also experience negative outcomes related to ableism. Mental health support might take the form of therapy, counseling, and/or support groups. [1]. Talking through and unpacking your experience in a supportive environment is a vital support for many ND folks.
Supportive and inclusive communities: It is important that disabled individuals and neurodivergent individuals have a sense of community where they feel safe, seen, accepted, and understood. This is important as supportive and inclusive communities help to reduce feelings of isolation and stigma. Ways to interact with other like-minded individuals/those who share the same disability might include physical spaces like schools or workplaces, or virtually through online communities, forums, and/or social media. [1].
Positive Representation: It can be beneficial to find a positive portrayal of disabled and/or neurodivergent individuals in the media. This can not only help with the negative stereotypes and discrimination fueled by ableism, but it can also be impactful to have someone like you to look up to as a role model in a neurotypical, able-bodied world. [1].
If you think you are Autistic and are interested in adult autism testing, we would love to speak to you about our Autism Evaluations. Contact us today.
Sources
[1] https://www.thriveautismcoaching.com/post/autism-and-internalized-ableism
