Melania Trump is speaking out about past rumors that her son, Barron Trump, have autism,
In her memoir, “Melania,” which was published Oct. 8, the former first lady wrote that her son was being bullied after comedian Rosie O’Donnell tweeted that he had autism.
In the tweet, which was later deleted, O’Donnell wrote, “Barron Trump autistic? If so, what an amazing opportunity this is to draw attention to the autism epidemic.”
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O’Donnell also shared a 2016 video of Barron Trump at the Republican National Convention.
Melania Trump is speaking out about past rumors that her son Barron Trump has autism. (Getty Images)
In the viral video, which has since been removed, the creator had added a caption saying that the boy, who was 10 years old at the time, was suffering from autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
“I was shocked by such cruelty,” melania trump Write in the book. “It was clear to me that she had no interest in raising awareness about autism. I felt like she was attacking my son because she didn’t like my husband.”
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He added, “There is nothing shameful about autism (although O’Donnell’s tweet was), but Barron is not autistic.”
“Barron’s experience of being bullied online and in real life following the incident is a clear indication of irreparable harm.”
The former first lady also described the experience as “devastating”.
“It felt like my heart was being torn to pieces.”
Rumors that Barron Trump was suffering from autism were sparked by a 2016 video of him at the Republican National Convention. (Getty Images)
The memoir, “Melania”, is published by Skyhorse Publishing and distributed by Simon & Schuster.
Dr. Agnesa Papazyan, aka Dr. Aggie, A clinical psychologist An expert in autism and neurodiversity in Los Angeles, spoke to Fox News Digital about the potential harm from publicly suggesting someone has autism.
“Publicly speculating about a diagnosis such as ASD also perpetuates harmful stereotypes.”
He said, “Publicly speculating about whether someone has autism or not based solely on how they act, talk or behave can have a negative impact — not just on the person. But also on the broader autism community.”
“It makes the person feel judged, misunderstood, ostracized, and stigmatized.”
One expert said, “Publicly speculating whether someone has autism based on the way they act, talk or behave can have a negative impact – not just on the individual, but on the wider autism community.” Too.” (Getty Images)
Dr. Eggie cautions that even when speculation is well-intentioned, the speculation may present the person’s behavior or communication patterns as unusual or “weird” or something that requires a label. Is required.
“Publicly speculating about a diagnosis such as ASD also perpetuates harmful stereotypes.”
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Given the complexity of the autism spectrum, Dr. Eggi emphasizes that diagnosis should only be made by trained professional — “Not through social media, through a friend, or by strangers on the Internet.”
“Making assumptions about others based on surface-level observations can lead to misdiagnosis, which not only affects the person concerned, but can also lead to misconceptions about autism,” he said.
“I was shocked by such cruelty,” Melania Trump writes in her new memoir, referring to rumors that her son was suffering from autism spectrum disorder. (Sunday morning promise)
“It can also lead to unfair treatment of the individual and create unnecessary obstacles or judgments in their personal and professional lives.”
The doctor also emphasized that the symptoms of autism differ from person to person.
“The spectrum nature of autism means that some individuals may be highly verbal and have exceptional cognitive abilities, while others may have significant communication or sensory challenges,” he said.
“This variation is particularly evident Among childrenBecause developmental milestones can vary widely.”
Experts described speculation about autism symptoms as “reckless”. (Jim Watson/AFP via Getty Images)
Nechama Sorsher, PhD, a clinical psychologist in New York City, agreed that these types of claims can be harmful.
“Assuming that someone has autism is the same as implying that someone has physical or mental health Challenges without clear evidence,” she said.
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“Simply put, this is negligence.”
According to Sorscher, approximately one in four students reports being bullied.
Symptoms of autism spectrum disorder can vary widely from person to person, ranging from mild to severe. (iStock)
He added, “Having a child is already hard enough, but for Barron, he’s in the national spotlight and under constant scrutiny.”
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“The rumor that he had autism would certainly have created a very difficult environment for him.”
Sorcher reports that more than 60% of children and young adults with autism experience bullying.
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“Whether you actually have autism or not, this type of bullying behavior This can lead to negative mood and self-image, changes in sleep patterns, decreased school performance, and more.”
Fox News Digital contacted representatives for Melania Trump and O’Donnell requesting comment.
