Clinically Significant Disturbance: On Theorists Who Theorize Theory of Mind

Yergeau, M. (2013). Clinically Significant Disturbance: On Theorists Who Theorize Theory of Mind. Disability Studies Quarterly, 33(4). https://doi.org/10.18061/dsq.v33i4.3876

Publication date: 5 Sep 2013 Added to AutiHub: 9 Aug 2026 Type: Article Article language: English

This publication is integrated into AutiHub through:

Authors

Publication authors
1
Publication authors identified as autistic
1 / 1 (100.0%)

Abstract

This essay is an autie-ethnographic narrative that traces the problems with and limits of theory of mind (ToM) as it is currently constructed in psychology and cognitive studies. In particular, I examine the role of the body in ToM—or rather, the ways in which autistic people are disembodied in theories about ToM. I argue that theories about ToM deny autistic people agency by calling into question their very humanity and, in doing so, wreak violence on autistic bodies. I suggest, furthermore, that feminist rhetorical studies represent one potential location for dismantling the complex web of oppression that ToM has come to signify.Keywords: theory of mind; autism; rhetoric; violence; embodiment

Bibliography cited by this reference

Cited references are imported from external metadata sources when they are available. The list may be partial.

No cited bibliography is currently integrated for this reference. This does not necessarily mean that no bibliography exists.