Uniquely Human: The Podcast

Dr. Peter Vermeulen, a Belgian Psychologist, is an important international voice in his constructive criticism of popular views on understanding the autistic experience. He is one of the rare professionals who dedicates much of his time and effort to applying the most recent research on human cognition to thinking deeply about the inner experiences of autistic people. And he does so in the service of making direct links to implications and strategies for support. In this episode, Barry and Dave discuss some of Peter’s thought-provoking perspectives.

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In his first description of autism, Leo Kanner noted that “insistence on preservation of sameness” was a distinguishing characteristic of autistic individuals. This may be manifest in a number of characteristics including “resistance to change” and the need to maintain routines that have been established in daily activities. Often such patterns may be manifest throughout the lifespan and too often, are described primarily as problematic and as a “symptom” of autism. But what if rather than viewing “control” through the lens of pathology, we consider the “deep why”. That is, from the perspective of the person who is viewed as controlling, what functions might be served by such patterns? Barry and Dave discuss the issue of control from their own personal experiences.

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The experience of autism creates complex relationships for many in a shared community, that can result in misunderstandings and even anger directed to others. People in these relationships include autistic individuals, parents, family members, educators, therapists, and many significant others. That said, there is also great potential for loving, mutually supportive and trusting relationships, but that takes work. Elaine Hall wears many hats, as a neurodivergent parent-professional, author, speaker, and consultant in film and TV. Despite significant barriers for her and her son, she has navigated and has thrived on her journey with grace and deep gratitude that is a gift to so many. Dave and Barry join Elaine in a discussion of the experience of feeling gratitude, and the importance of sharing those feelings with others.

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Amanda Diekman discusses and provides examples of the approach she refers to as “Low Demand Parenting” and presents this approach in contrast to advice often given to parents of autistic and other neurodivergent children. With her lived experience as a mother of three neurodivergent children, and as an autistic person, she challenges many mainstream beliefs about raising children, especially those who are defined as having behavioral patterns perceived as problematic by others. Her work prioritizes building trusting relationships focused on supporting the emotional growth and well-being of children.

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Jaya Ramesh and Priya Saaral, both neurodivergent professionals and parents of neurodivergent children bring a unique perspective to the challenges and gifts of raising children of color. Based on their new book, Parenting at the Intersections, we discuss the barriers that families of color face over and above those encountered by all families who have children with neurodevelopmental differences, as well as all that can be learned in each family’s journey.

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