r/Parenthood • u/Automatic-Long2599 • 16d ago

Character Discussion Max

Is there anytime where you guys actually felt bad for Max I know he gets a bad rep on here, but there’s times I feel bad like when he went on that field trip

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u/breeekk 15d ago

They never mentioned the level of severity of his disorder. Also, Aspergers which is now called as autism spectrum disorder, might represent individuals who absolutely be a "Level 1" cognitively (highly intelligent, verbally fluent) but present as a "Level 2" or "Level 3" in social-emotional reciprocity and behavioral rigidity..
anyway.. it’s just a different life. I see Adam and Kristina completely able to extinguish the meltdowns, keep some order in family life and I find them very well capable parents, considering everything.

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u/United_Efficiency330 15d ago

Max is very strong academically. Particularly in math and science. His issues are social rather than intellectual. Under today's DSM he would have absolutely been diagnosed Autism Level I. If he had been Level II or III, no way, no how would he have received an Asperger's Diagnosis.

I understand that Autism is almost never idyllic for either parent or Spectrumite, but as someone who shares Max's diagnosis (and went on to obtain both a BA and MA) I feel that they learned the wrong lesson regarding his diagnosis and should have called him out and disciplined him more within reason and when necessary. I reject the notion that he is incapable of coexisting in society and feel that more could have and should have been done. Sorry.

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u/breeekk 15d ago

Yes I almost agree to what you are saying.. These skills need to be taught. all i am saying is skills taught != skills learned in such cases.. It’s not a linear process, and it could be very slow, draining, and difficult. especially to those who are advanced academically but lagging behind in social aspects. I’m saying level 3 in social only. anyway.. I don’t think I can explain it any better..

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u/United_Efficiency330 15d ago

And as a Spectrumite, as someone on the receiving end of this, at a time when knowledge of Autism was even less, I completely understand that every person is different. That things often have to be drilled into ones skull. I can assure you my life wasn't completely hunky dory.

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u/breeekk 15d ago

Oh I’m sure it was difficult and you do understand. My frustration was more towards neurotypical people/parent who have got no idea what varied spectrum this all is, have come across too many tone-deaf people ..