Seeking better autism understanding
As a youngster, he was bullied because he was different.
Now, a French doctor with autism is spreading the word about the good that the condition brings.
Josef Schovanec speaks 10 languages, has written a bestselling biography, has two regular radio shows in France and Belgium and a doctorate, and is a sought-after international public speaker on autism. He has just visited Palmerston North to give a public talk about his ‘‘travels in autism’’.
People with autism spectrum disorder are typically extremely socially reserved. Schovanec said he had to make a conscious decision to learn social conventions and compel himself to undertake social situations. He still finds it exhausting, but enjoys meeting people.
He is passionate about developing understanding between ‘‘normal’’ and autistic people and advocating for better treatment for people with autism.
‘‘Autism is fun. You can have lots of fun with autistic people. The aim is to see how we can [all] have a much better life, as we share our different perspectives.
‘‘If everyone was the same, that would be a sad place to live. I wouldn’t like to live in a place where everyone was the same, with the same interests, and same perspectives.
‘‘We have to champion [human] biodiversity... They’re different types of human beings and we need all of them.’’
One example is progressing innovation through outside-thebox thinking and another is learning better tolerance and empathy.
‘‘It’s hard work accepting differences. It should be taught in schools from very early on. It’s most important to learn the skills of being with other people.’’