Coventry man challenging misconceptions of autism
Research shows that autistic people will hide their diagnosis to avoid harming their chances of landing a job, or progressing in their career
An autistic man from Coventry is challenging misconceptions of the condition.
Research shows that autistic people will hide their diagnosis to avoid harming their chances of landing a job, or progressing in their career.
Johnathan Caldiera says he receives the ever-present "You don’t look autistic, or "You’re so articulate," comments on a regular basis.
We've been speaking with Johnathan on how he wants to highlight these common misconceptions which he describes as being dated.
Johnathan said: "Autistic stereotypes that I have had experience with are that autistic people can only be male and their presentation is hyperactive or childlike.
"Another huge misconception is that autism is something that people can ‘visually see’ in behaviour or appearance, there's always an assumption that if you can’t see someone autistic and struggling, then their struggles are not real which is hugely frustrating."
Johnathan continued: "Autistic people are different, but not less."
"I think the best way that we can approach people in general, especially when it comes to hidden disabilities, is to try to assume nothing and be curious and ask questions.
"I always try to encourage a environment with my colleagues, for example, that they can ask where the questions they want and that can help challenge misconceptions."