Temple Grandin is not shy about expressing
the challenges of a person with autism. In social situations, as we know, autistic people often
struggle to understand and respond to others. Due to their specialized brains, however, people
with autism can also have unique strengths. In addition, because people with autism tend to be
very focused and able to stay attuned to a single topic for extended periods of time, their
strengths can be translated into many successful careers.
Grandin lists three
types of specialized brains that can often be found among people with autism or Aspergers
syndrome. Some, like Grandin herself, are visual thinkers. These individuals are able to see and
visualize the world in a way language-based thinkers are unable to do. This special way of
thinking is what enables Temple Grandin to do so much good work for animal welfare, because she
can see the world as animals do and design thoughtful solutions for their comfort and calm.
Visual thinkers can excel in any field, such as drafting or design, that allows them to use
images rather than words.
Others are mathematical thinkers, whose brains work
to form patterns. These individuals make excellent computer programmers, engineers,
statisticians. Music often appeals to them, due to its mathematical qualities. Once again, they
do not need words in order to apply their expertise, only patterns themselves. Finally, she
mentions verbal logic thinkers. These people notice details in language, which could make them
excellent translators or librarians, for example.
So long as each person's
specialized brain is recognized, their talents can bloom.
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