124 | navigating social media, research, and BIPOC representation in the autistic community with Kaligirwa @blackspectrumscholar

ABOUT THIS EPISODE (+ scroll for resources) 👇Dr. Tay is joined by Kaligirwa @blackspectrumscholar, an AuDHD communication researcher, to discuss the intersection of neurodiversity and research, with a particular emphasis on BIPOC representation within the autism community. Kali shares her personal journey of discovering her autism diagnosis and her efforts to highlight the representation of Black autistic individuals on social media. The conversation covers broad topics such as the history of autism subtypes, the diagnostic challenges faced by BIPOC individuals, and the complexities of clinical diagnosis. Dr. Tay and Kali also delve into the importance of evolving our understanding and terminology around autism to build greater acceptance and support as well as how to use social media as a tool to learn while also knowing its limitations. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Overview01:19 Host's Background and Podcast Purpose02:22 Guest's Personal Journey with Autism04:49 Challenges and Representation in Autism Research07:14 Social Media and Misinformation11:31 Navigating Research and Personal Experience26:11 Discussion on Autism Subtypes and Diagnosis30:53 Understanding PDD-NOS and Stigma31:47 Challenges with DSM-5 Levels32:58 Regional Differences in Diagnoses33:44 Functional Assessment Over Levels35:24 Issues with Profound Autism Label37:18 Spiky Profiles and Individual Differences39:22 BIPOC Representation in Autism Conversations39:55 Cultural Barriers to Diagnosis42:57 ODD and PDA: Shifting Perspectives49:53 Complexities of Diagnosing Anxiety51:24 Finding Affirming Practitioners53:28 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsRESOURCES⚡️ connect with Kaligirwa on Instagram and TikTok @blackspectrumscholar and check out her resource library⚡️ want to learn more about Dr. Tay's Whole Family Approach and current services offered? visit drtaylorday.com⚡️ join the Evolve Facebook community to participate in the episode Q+As >> facebook.com/groups/evolveautism⚡️ learn from me and submit your questions [could be featured on a future episode] >>Instagram @the.dr.tayTikTok @the.dr.tayLinkedIn @the-dr-tay