At MKGenetix, we strive to shift the narrative around autism from one of deficits to one of understanding and respect. Barry Prizant’s book Uniquely Human: A Different Way of Seeing Autism encourages us to embrace behaviors associated with autism as natural variations of the human experience—something we can all relate to. Here, we take a closer look at how behaviors often labeled as “autistic” mirror the ways all humans cope, communicate, and thrive. I’ll be honest that I am still reading this book and have found it so fantastic, that I couldn’t wait to post.
Autism as a Human Experience, Not a Condition to Be Fixed
Think about the last time you felt overwhelmed. Maybe it was a loud, bustling environment, or perhaps you were trying to concentrate in a chaotic space. How did you cope? You might have paced, tapped your foot, or closed your eyes to block it all out. These are forms of self-regulation—and they’re not so different from the repetitive behaviors (or stimming) often seen in autistic individuals.
In Uniquely Human, Barry Prizant explains that behaviors like rocking, flapping hands, or repeating words are often strategies autistic individuals use to calm their minds or communicate their feelings. Instead of seeing these actions as “problematic,” we can view them as natural responses to overstimulation, excitement, or a need for predictability—things we all experience. At MKGenetix, we encourage families and caregivers to see these behaviors as opportunities for connection and support, not correction.
Building Trust and Connection
Everyone has moments when they feel anxious or unsure, especially when faced with unexpected changes or unclear expectations. Think about how reassuring it is to have someone explain what’s happening, or how calming it can be to stick to a familiar routine. For autistic individuals, this need for predictability and clear communication is even more pronounced.
Prizant emphasizes that many behaviors stem from a need to reduce stress and regain a sense of control. When we provide predictable routines, clear instructions, or visual supports, we aren’t indulging these needs—we’re fostering trust and emotional security. At MKGenetix, we advocate for strategies that prioritize understanding and connection, like creating visual schedules, allowing for gradual transitions, and being patient when new situations arise. After all, don’t we all feel better when we know what to expect?
Respecting Neurodiversity
We all have strengths that make us unique—whether it’s a knack for creativity, an eye for detail, or the ability to focus intensely on what we love. For autistic individuals, these strengths may manifest as deep knowledge of a favorite subject, the ability to see patterns others miss, or unwavering honesty.
Rather than framing these traits as “quirks” or “limitations,” Uniquely Human asks us to recognize them as valuable contributions to the richness of human diversity. Just as some people are natural athletes while others excel in the arts, autistic individuals bring unique perspectives and skills to the table. At MKGenetix, we celebrate this diversity and hope that every one learns to nurture their loved ones’ strengths, empowering them to pursue their passions and reach their full potential.
Supporting Families Holistically
Parenting is hard work for everyone—but for families of autistic individuals, it can come with additional challenges, like navigating complex systems or managing well-meaning but uninformed advice from others. Still, at its core, the experience of raising an autistic child is not so different from raising any child.
All parents worry about their kids’ future. All families face moments of frustration, joy, and uncertainty. By focusing on shared experiences and offering practical tools, Uniquely Human provides a roadmap for families to not only support their autistic loved ones but also find balance and fulfillment in their own lives. At MKGenetix, we extend this approach by providing genetic counseling, connecting families to resources, and fostering communities of support where families can share their journeys.
Taking Action: Embracing Our Shared Humanity
Ultimately, the principles of Uniquely Human remind us that the differences between autistic and non-autistic individuals are often a matter of degree, not kind. We all seek connection. We all have strategies to manage stress. And we all have unique ways of experiencing and interpreting the world.
At MKGenetix, we are committed to creating a world where these commonalities are celebrated and our differences are respected. Whether you’re a parent, educator, or healthcare provider, we invite you to join us in embracing this compassionate, relationship-focused approach to autism. Together, we can create an environment where every individual is empowered to live authentically and thrive.
If you haven’t read or listened to it, I highly encourage you to – Uniquely Human by Barry Prizant.
Warm regards,
Megan Trinkle-Knotts, MS, CGC
Certified Genetic Counselor
Founder, MKGenetix
Images may be AI Generated