Researchers in Africa summarize how cultural taboos in many African societies attribute autism to spiritual causes, such as curses or witchcraft, leading families to seek help from traditional healers rather than evidence-based interventions. This belief system often stigmatizes autistic individuals and their families, creating resistance to systems of support.

The Navajo tribe often views autistic individuals as possessing unique spiritual gifts, sometimes seen as potential mediums or shamans who can connect with the spiritual world. This contrasts with many African cultures, where being autistic is frequently stigmatized and attributed to curses or witchcraft, leading to exclusion rather than reverence. Both perspectives stem from spiritual interpretations but differ significantly in their societal implications—one sees autistic traits as a gift, while the other often views them as a burden or punishment.

I don’t have firsthand experience with these two cultures. I accept the anthropology research, and see how these beliefs in the ultra orthodox chassidic culture where I was born, raised, and parented autistic children.

What are some culture clashes between your family/society, and the way the US frames medical autism?

APA Citation:

Agbamu, E., Balogun, K. A., Mamat Jasseh, O., Igwebuike, V., Amoye, O. A., Ahmed, A. H., & Chernet, M. G. (2024). Multidisciplinary telehealth interventions for autistic children in sub-Saharan Africa: challenges and recommendations. Tropical Journal of Pharmaceutical Research, 23(12), 2147-2155.