Is It Okay for an Autistic Person to Like Gerald from Finding Dory?

What a strange question. What do you think is going to happen—The Autism Police are going to come and give someone a citation? Autistic people are allowed to like whatever they want. They are free human beings, you realize…

Autistic People Are Free to Like Whatever They Want

Autistic people can do whatever they want. I don’t understand a context in which this would not be okay. Is it harming someone else? Is it harming them? If the answers to both of these are no, then they can absolutely do them. Autistic people are just like normal people. They have likes and dislikes and personality traits.

Sometimes you should replace 'autistic' with 'blonde girls' or something equally stupid. That shows that the question is:

Generalizing about people Not necessarily relevant

If we asked if it was okay for blonde girls to like Gerald from Finding Dory, that would be ridiculous. People would probably scorn you. Why is it any different when we talk about autism? Autistic people are people. All people can like things.

Autistic People’s Preferences Are as Valid as Anyone Else’s

Is your friend autistic, and they love the character Gerald from the movie Finding Dory? Your response should be, 'So what?' Just like for any other individual, no preference should be judged unless it directly impacts someone else or yourself.

Autistic people have the same complex and nuanced preferences as anyone else. Whether it's a character from a movie, a particular food, a type of music, or a hobby, these interests are simply a part of who they are as an individual. It's important to respect and embrace these unique qualities rather than subjecting them to arbitrary judgments.

Moreover, when it comes to autism, there is immense variability and diversity within the spectrum. What one person finds appealing might not resonate with another, and that's perfectly fine. The key is to recognize that these preferences are not defining characteristics but rather personal choices and interests.

Debunking Stereotypes and Promoting Inclusivity

Dismissing or marginalizing a person's interests based on their diagnosis is both unfair and counterproductive. Autistic people should have the same freedom to express themselves and pursue their passions as any non-autistic person. Stereotyping individuals based on their condition can lead to further social isolation and prejudice, ultimately hindering their ability to thrive in society.

To promote inclusivity, we should strive to:

Challenge stereotypes and foster an understanding that autistic individuals have a wide range of interests and preferences. Create environments where all individuals, regardless of neurotype, can feel comfortable and supported in expressing their likes and dislikes. Advocate for policies and practices that respect and accommodate neurodiversity in diverse settings, including schools, workplaces, and public spaces.

Conclusion

So, is it okay for an autistic person to like Gerald from Finding Dory? Absolutely. As with anyone else, it comes down to genuine interest and personal preference. As long as this interest does not harm anyone, including the individual themselves, it is entirely acceptable and should be celebrated.