ArticleParents
The autism journey: accepting vs. resisting a diagnosis
Resistance isn't the enemy of acceptance — channelled well, it becomes advocacy.
SupportNest Editorial
Reviewed by people in this role
'Resistance' gets a bad name. Some of it is denial — but some of it is the very fire that makes a parent stand up in a meeting and refuse to be brushed off.
Two kinds of resistance
- Resistance to reality — 'This isn't happening.' This one keeps you stuck.
- Resistance to low expectations — 'No, my kid can, with the right support.' This one moves mountains.
The skill is sorting which is which. Let go of the first; sharpen the second into clear, specific asks.
Acceptance of your child and high expectations for your child are not opposites. The best advocates hold both.