Autism is a developmental condition that affects how people communicate, learn, and interact with others. Even though many autistic people have strengths and abilities, society often misunderstands them. These misunderstandings can lead to unfair treatment, stigma, and even dangerous situations. Looking at how autistic people are treated through Conflict Theory helps explain how power and inequality shape their experiences.

Conflict Theory, created by Karl Marx, explains that society is made up of groups competing for power and resources, where those in power often create rules that benefit themselves while less powerful groups struggle for fair treatment. This theory can be seen in how autistic children are treated in schools, how the public reacts to autism, and in the 2016 shooting involving Charles Kinsey. In July 2016, Charles Kinsey, a behavioral technician, was trying to help an autistic man who had wandered away from a group home in North Miami, Florida. While Kinsey lay on the ground with his hands raised and explained to police that the man he was assisting was autistic, Kinsey was still shot in the leg by an officer ( Micah L EBSCO, 2016). This incident shows how people with disabilities and those advocating for them can be placed at risk due to misunderstandings and unequal power between law enforcement and civilians. Through the lens of Conflict Theory, the shooting reflects how marginalized groups, including autistic individuals, often face harm when those in authority misuse power or fail to understand their needs.

Autistic Children in School Settings   

In the TED Talk about autistic children in schools, the speaker explains that many autistic students are misunderstood by teachers and classmates (TEDx Talks, 2016). When a student behaves differently or learns at a different pace, others may judge them instead of trying to understand their needs. This is the first place where conflict appears.

Schools have the power to decide what “normal” behavior looks like. Autistic children may not fit these expectations because they communicate and learn in different ways. When schools expect autistic students to act like everyone else instead of giving them the support they need, conflict grows. According to Conflict Theory, the group with more power the school system creates rules that the less powerful group—students with autism—must follow, even when the rules are not fair.

Public Misunderstanding and Stigma

The article Public Reaction to People with Autism explains that many people still have the wrong ideas about autism. Some think autistic people cannot work, cannot form relationships, or cannot live independently (Gillespie-Lynch et al., 2023). These beliefs create stigma and discrimination. Stigma causes autistic people to be rejected or excluded, which hurts their emotional well-being.

From a Conflict Theory perspective, stigma is a tool used by powerful groups to maintain control. Negative beliefs keep autistic people in a weaker social position and limit their opportunities. The article also explains that media plays a big role in shaping the public’s beliefs. When media shares positive and accurate information, public understanding improves. But when media spreads stereotypes, conflict and stigma grow (Gillespie-Lynch et al., 2023).

The Charles Kinsey Case

A powerful example of misunderstanding leading to conflict and danger is the 2016 shooting of Charles Kinsey, a behavioral therapist in North Miami. Kinsey was helping an autistic man who had a toy truck. A bystander believed the toy was a gun and called the police. When officers arrived, Kinsey lay on the ground with his hands up, telling them clearly that his client had autism and was not armed (EBSCO Research Starters, n.d.). Even though Kinsey followed instructions, an officer shot him in the leg.

This case shows how dangerous misunderstanding autism can be. The autistic man did nothing wrong, but because his behavior was not understood, officers believed he was a threat. According to Conflict Theory, the police—who hold significant power—may react with force when they do not understand or identify with a less powerful group, such as autistic individuals and their caregivers.

The shooting caused national attention and raised questions about police training and how officers interact with disabled people. The Kinsey case clearly shows how power imbalance and lack of understanding can lead to conflict and violence.

Conflict Theory and Inequality

Conflict Theory helps explain why these problems continue to happen:

• In schools, autistic children must follow rules that do not fit their needs.
  
  
• In society, stigma keeps autistic people from having equal opportunities.
  
  
• In policing, misunderstanding can lead to dangerous or violent situations.
  
  

In each case, the less powerful group—the autistic community—is harmed. Conflict Theory shows that meaningful change will happen only when society challenges the unequal power dynamics that create misunderstanding.

Schools need better teacher training. Media must share accurate information about autism. Police must learn how to safely and respectfully interact with autistic individuals. These changes can reduce conflict and help create a more understanding and inclusive society.

Conclusion

Autistic people deserve respect, safety, and equal opportunities. However, misunderstanding and stigma lead to conflict in schools, public spaces, and interactions with authority figures. The TED Talk, the public reaction article, and the Charles Kinsey case all show how powerful groups often misunderstand or mistreat autistic individuals. Using Conflict Theory helps show that these issues are part of a bigger pattern of inequality.

To reduce conflict, society must challenge harmful beliefs, improve training and awareness, and give autistic individuals a fair chance to participate fully in their communities. Only then can we create a safer and more supportive world for people with autism.