Jerry Seinfeld: I’m on ‘autism spectrum’

You know that keen observational humor Jerry Seinfeld is known for? Well we may have autism to thank for that.

In an interview with Brian Williams for NBC Nightly News, the comedian said that he believes he is probably on the autism spectrum.

“I think, on a very drawn-out scale, I think I’m on the spectrum,” he told the news anchor. 

When Williams asked Seinfeld, 60, what made him think this, he said that he feels as though he never pays attention to the right things, and that he struggles with basic social engagement.

“I’m very literal; when people talk to me and they use expressions, sometimes I don’t know what they’re saying,” he said.

The comedian, who did not mention having been diagnosed by a medical professional, was quick to add that he does not think of being on the autism spectrum as a disability.

“But I don’t see it as dysfunctional, I just think of it as an alternate mindset,” he said.

http://youtu.be/zMfzBr6ptiE

Matthew Asner, executive director for Southern California of the autism science and advocacy organization Autism Speaks, welcomed Seinfeld’s revelation.

“Jerry Seinfeld has been a champion of the autism community and Autism Speaks for years. The autism spectrum is very broad, representing a diverse community of individuals with a range of talents as well as challenges. There are many people on the spectrum who can relate to Jerry’s heartfelt comments about his own experiences,” Asner told The Times of Israel.

However, others were more hesitant to praise the comedian’s comments, expressing concern that his apparent self-diagnosis could make it more difficult for individuals who have received a professional diagnosis of autism to be taken seriously.

“One can exhibit what many would consider ‘Asperger-like’ behaviors and not actually be on the autism spectrum,” said special needs advocate and writer Rabbi Rebecca Einstein Schorr, referring to a high functioning form of autism.

According to Schorr, autism is not just about these behaviors, but also about how much they impact one’s life.

“Getting an accurate diagnosis can be tricky, but is imperative in concluding whether one has autism,” she said.

“It is challenging enough for individuals on the autism spectrum to have their diagnosis understood and taken seriously, and I am concerned that Seinfeld’s announcement, in the absence of a diagnosis by a medical professional, will make it that more difficult for those on the spectrum.”