In this text I’d like explore the complex considerations of Louis, a highly educated individual with autism, who seeks to share his experiences and perspectives on autism with others. Louis has ambitious plans to disseminate his story through various media channels, including a blog, podcast, vlog, and ultimately a book with accompanying lectures. However, he grapples with the question of how to sign his work — whether to use his real name, a pseudonym, or even a heteronym.
Sharing personal experiences of autism is a valuable initiative that can foster understanding and empathy. I concur with Louis that this sharing should occur within a safe environment and with respect for personal boundaries. It is crucial to reflect on the level of openness and privacy when divulging such intimate narratives.
From my perspective as an autism advocate and guest lecturer at highschools, colleges and universities, I will delve into the arguments for and against using a pseudonym. On one hand, a pseudonym provides privacy protection, a sense of security, comfort, and self-expression. It can also concentrate the focus on the content of the story and enhance accessibility to a wider audience. For some individuals, particularly those in specific professional fields marred by intolerance, a pseudonym can shield against stigmatization.
On the other hand, there are drawbacks to using a pseudonym. Readers may cast doubt on the credibility and reliability of the author. Additionally, it may create a sense of distance and diminish the sense of responsibility. For professional collaborations or media appearances, employing a pseudonym can present challenges.
It is essential to emphasize that everyone has the right to choose the extent of personal information they share and under which name. Autism experiences are inherently unique and can assume various forms. The focus should lie in comprehending the personal experience of autism and how it is perceived in society, rather than adhering to rigid identity constructs.
Research demonstrates that using a pseudonym can promote broader accessibility, particularly for those who feel more at ease with a less familiar identity. From this, we can glean that sharing personal experiences is not solely contingent on the name under which it transpires, but predominantly on its impact on the audience and their understanding of autism.
In conclusion, sharing personal experiences of autism is a valuable endeavor that fosters understanding and empathy. Louis’ considerations regarding the use of a pseudonym are comprehensible, given the complexity of this matter. It is of paramount importance that each individual has the freedom to decide how much and which aspects of their identity they wish to share, with the objective of positively impacting others and promoting a more inclusive comprehension of autism.
