I recently began watching Fathering Autism. After a few “episodes” I was hooked, and binge watched the majority. (I do not know much about autism, nor am I qualified to diagnosis or play doctor.) The more episodes I watched, the more uneasy I began to feel. I started googling multiple autism related articles— and while some descriptions did describe Abbie, her autism appeared to be more severe than any information listed. As I continued to watch, I couldn’t help but think she’s showing more signs of IDD (mental retardation).
In the early vlogs Abbie does seem like a “typical child with autism.” However, as she became older, it appears that she has not really advanced in anyway, and almost in a worse than condition. The family blames it on puberty- which is fair. Puberty regardless of how you function in the world sucks. But it’s also a cop out. No one is going to argue puberty (especially female puberty).
It occurred to me why I felt so uneasy; I was not watching a girl with autism, as this family so “proudly” tries to influence. I was watching an exploited teenager with the mindset of an infant, who has profound IDD.
This family is 100% neglecting the fact that their daughter is not so much autistic as she is profoundly IDD. They are lying and covering up for the sake of themselves. In the earliest episodes, you’d see Pricilla just sitting on the couch, or laying in bed. Hardly showing Abbie any recognition or affection. As soon as they started profiting off Abbie, that affection changed. It is so cringeworthy watching Pricilla’s fake affection towards her daughter.
Summer moving in with them is awkward, and forced. Asa gives off the initial vibe as an amazing caretaker, until you keep watching. The more you watch, the more you realize how awful it really is. I understand the parents need breaks, as any parent does. However, this particular family receives more help than imaginable. There is no reason that they cannot focus on their business or whatever they do while Abbie is at school, and out with one of her other numerous caregivers or “friends.” A lot of the vlog footage is Pricilla marketing her channel, and Asa scooting around. It is focusing less on Abbie’s autism and more on how Abbie’s needs revolve around them. The restriction of food is disgusting and cruel. Even if she does eat to the point she gets sick, she should not be so restricted. Mentally she might be like an infant, physically she is a rapidly growing teenager. If she is on birth control, plus going through puberty and certain meds that girl is probably actually very hungry. I’m sorry, autistic or IDD salmon and cauliflower is not dinner. That’s a diet for a 60 year old man with high cholesterol. All this sugar free crap too is just ridiculous. Give the girl a full meal. Also, for the love of god, they need to quit dressing Abbie in tight leggings with those bulging diapers. I’m not shaming pull ups, but incorporate a baggier fitting bottom— or better yet, don’t exploit your child. I’m sorry if this is a long ass rant. I would look at the comments on the videos, and I was shocked there wasn’t much of any critical comments. So I googled fathering autism criticism and I found this page. Everything you all have mentioned is 100% accurate, and needs to be brought to light.