DECONSTRUCTING PERSONALITY STATUS OF AUTISM IN NIGERIA TOWARDS NATIONAL DEVELOPMENT

Abstract

The aim of this paper is an attempt towards a conceptual redefinition of autism personality status in Nigeria. This study  applies both expository and analytic methods to expose some Nigerians’ conceptual  assumptions of autism in comparison to global practices, hence by analytical method re-frame prevalent autism definitions in Nigeria. Autism is a neurodevelopmental phenomenon charaterized by differences in reciprocal communication. It is a spectrum manifest in variations of verbal and non-verbal communication styles, repetitive behaviors, preference for structured routines, etc. They have been proven to have a very high intellectual capacity, high level of concentration leading to expertise in special career paths, etc.  Th findings of this research reveal that the greatest challenge to autism in Nigeria is the problem of misconceptualization, hence demarcating autistic persons as abnormal humans. This misconception include; defining autistic people as sick, caused, spiritual/evil/demonic possession, etc.   Similarly, this study shows that beyond the misconceptualization of autism, raising autistic children poses daunting physical,  psycho-spiritual and social challenges to their care givers in Nigeria, hence exposing  autistic people to poor care. From the findings, this study proposes immediate and informed targeted psychosocial support interventions to assuage the stigma and demarcations of people with autism. Also, the key stakeholders ought to provide suitable healthcare facilities and resources for autistic people.  In conclusion, when there are informed targeted psychosocial support interventions and the key stakeholders become intentional, hence there would be an assurance of full integration and participation of autistic people in societal life.