To be Angered by Dr Pam Spurrs Big Brother Explanation on Aspergers Syndrome

[JohFlow]

So last night the lovely 'Abz' (rapper of yesteryear) explained that he had Asperger's Syndrome in the diary room.

Emma Willis asked there resident Behavioural Psychologist Dr Pam Spurr to explain what the condition is to the viewers.

Her explanation focused on the negatives that some people with the condition have e.g : learning difficulties, needing time to process social interaction etc. Leaving those new to the condition thinking that someone with it may have disadvantages only .

There was no explanation of the fact that an Aspergic brain works differently/interestingly - or the possible plus sides to the condition such as above average intelligent, savantism, fresh thinking, honesty etc.

Is it a little irrresponsible not to be able to explain the condition in full with her experience - and knowing that there would be someone coming into the house with the condition?

What did you think?

Thanks Catinabox.

Your paper (should it materialise) sounds really interesting. I'd be interested in your theories should you want to share privately.

I was unaware that the condition had been de-classified; which indeed would sound like more of an acceptance of diversity. For me; an Asperger's brain is fundamentally different and (within the foundations of that) people function in an entirely rational way. I am more interested in why my partner does things rather than comparing his behaviour with others.

I think the words 'abnormal', 'disabled', 'suffers' and so forth are used way too often to describe something which occurs naturally and is not an 'illness' in my book.

Isn't the brain a wonderful thing. Where we lose in some areas we certainly make up in others. My partner has massive 'pockets of intelligence' going on.

Being with someone with Aspergers has certainly taught me lot about communication, myself and society in general. I won't lie about it being a challenge- if definitely is; and I have taken a while to adjust. But I would not want it any other way now.

So Dustin (Screech from Saved By The Bell) is starting to find a way to communicate on a deeper level with Abz during their one-to-one garden chats now. I am not sure if he is doing it consciously; but he is describing what he means when he says something. Very clever and it is encouraging Abz to articulate more.