‘Illness, disease, epidemic.’ These are the terms that are commonly, and incorrectly, associated with autism. To say that this neurodivergence is misunderstood in Egyptian society and beyond is an understatement, yet in recent years, many individuals have worked tirelessly to alter perceptions of it – and continue to make exceptional progress. Autism is a lifelong, complex developmental condition characterised by challenges with social skills, repetitive behaviours, speech and nonverbal communication. There are many types, and those with autism are commonly said to fall on a ‘spectrum’, and each person experiences a different set of strengths and challenges. Some people with autism may struggle interpreting the nuances of social interaction or experience sensory intensity, including towards sound, light, temperature and smell, which can be perceived in extreme or unusual ways. Others may develop highly focused interests and be skilled in logical thinking and have particularly precise memory ability. Some may be able to live independently, only experiencing autism very mildly, while others need continual support from a young age. Attitudes towards autism in Egypt have changed majorly over the past couple of decades, and no one has witnessed this shift quite…
‘With Awareness Comes Acceptance’: Shifting Perceptions of Autism in Egypt
May 11, 2021
