Feb 10 2025 22 mins 2
In this solo episode of Dads in Autismland, host Mark de Grasse takes on a frustrating but all-too-common topic—how to handle trolls, critics, and public judgment as an autism dad.
Whether online or in person, autism parents frequently face uninformed, judgmental, or outright cruel comments about their parenting choices.
He breaks down the three types of trolls, explores why people react negatively to autism behaviors, and offers practical strategies for managing these encounters with calm, confidence, and perspective.
Most importantly, he encourages autism dads to stand strong, support each other, and never let public opinion dictate their child’s experiences.
TOPICS
- Understanding Trolls: The three types—uninformed, judgmental, and cruel
- Public Judgment vs. Private Strength: Why autism parents face criticism
- Strategies for Handling Negativity: Ignoring, educating, or engaging?
- Personal Stories: Dealing with restaurant stares, airplane complaints, and online attacks
- Why Taking Your Child Out in Public Matters: Visibility, acceptance, and normalizing autism
QUOTE
"If you're dealing with trolls, sorry about that. But thank you for keeping your cool. It's the best for your family, and it's the best for your mental health, too." - Mark de Grasse
DISCLAIMER
Every child's autism journey is unique. This video shares one family's personal experience and is meant for informational purposes only. Always consult with healthcare professionals for medical advice.
