ASD-Two camps?

I think I finally understand what this means. The former is the preferred 'label' for some people to hide behind, and a rod with which to beat the majority. I prefer the term ASD or Autistic Spectrum Disorder, as I find this more inclusive than Aspergers. Indeed I understand from the autism charity whose meetings I attend, that this is the way that modern diagnosis is going. Let me tell you a story.

Some people say that they have Aspergers, on the basis that it has been suggested that they have the condition. They do not seek diagnosis, yet tell the world that this is how they are. I can think of someone, for example, whose behaviour and manner don't have even the slightest similarity with those of people I know well, or with  people I know not so well but who have been diagnosed. I hear strange comments about things they find impossible, (for example saying 'no') that other people with the condition might find awkward but not impossible. In fact I don't recognise anything in such behaviour and any other behaviour, that could be remotely considered 'autistic'. I feel that such people are devious, manipulative and weak, and hide behind the label so that others might make their decisions for them, and in order to automatically blame others for any mistakes of theirs.

I, on the other hand, am actively seeking diagnosis, despite the obstacles I find in my way. I have always accepted full responsibility for my own mistakes. I also used to accept the responsibility for the mistakes of others. I suppose I still do (a bit), but I'm learning to follow my own instincts. By the way I always say 'no' if 'no' is what I mean. So do the several other autistic people whom I have asked about it.

So, on the one hand we have the 'nice' autistic person, as weak and innocent as a corseted Victorian lady, who is believed because they are inoffensive and 'nice' (but not in my opinion, I hasten to add). On the other hand you have the straight-talking 'me', who reacts to the moment and is sometimes overwhelmed, who says exactly what they mean, so is therefore, horrible, 'mad' (possibly) and therefore not to be believed.

Is Aspergers the new gay? In this scenario I believe it is. Autistic people are known for being honest, sometimes brutally so, as we lack the imagination to lie. This is another thing to take into account in the case of the other person.