One of the most common misconceptions about people diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is that they are apathetic. Because the disorder exists on a spectrum, each person is different, but those with ASD experience the same emotions as others, sometimes more intensely.
“People with autism may show different emotions than expected, but this does not mean they are emotionless,” writes Autism Learning Partners. Some people with schizophrenia internalize their emotions not as a direct result of autism, but because of external factors such as bullying or trauma.”
A viral video posted by mother Jennifer White-Johnson shows that it’s okay for people with ASD to experience emotions that, when mixed with confidence, can result in outbursts of pure and unbridled joy. indicates that there is
On Dec. 13, White Johnson posted a video of his son Knox, 10, playing “All I Want For Christmas Is You” by Mariah Carey, and it was pure joy. Knox said he has ASD, but it didn’t hinder his performance. In fact, that’s probably one of the reasons he was so carefree.
“Timeline cleansing if you need it!” “Knox performed @MariahCarey’s ‘All I Want For Christmas Is You’ #AutisticJoy in full force at the 4th grade school winter concert tonight! My kid is everything! Mariah hope you see this!!”
Amazingly, Christmas Queen Carrie saw the video and reposted it on Twitter. “YOUR KIDS ARE EVERYTHING!!!!!!!!” Carey wrote. “Knox, you made my day. Thank you for doing that. I love you.”
The family framed Carey’s tweet, and Knox thanked her in a response video. said Knox.
White-Johnson was happy that her video was able to show people the aspects of ASD that people try to hide.
“We don’t want to shut our son up and say you’re too loud when he’s only doing things that make him really happy,” White Johnson told Good Morning America. And in the case of a black autistic child, there are certain expectations about how that child will behave, and various people say they are surprised that he can express his emotions to such an extent. I think even a young child with autism can do it.He is still human and has feelings and wants to share them.What does that mean to him? To be free to explore what to do.”
Kudos to White-Johnson for sharing the video of her child’s performance. Because it’s fun to watch and shows the side of her ASD that more people need to understand. Seeing people with ASD have great emotions increases the chances that the stigma surrounding the disorder will be removed and they will be treated like everyone else.
