Presumed Competence: Why It Matters
- Dr. Stephanie Lavoie and Dr. Michelle Fardella
- 3 days ago
- 4 min read
Updated: 20 hours ago
Imagine if people assumed you couldn't do something before you even had the chance to try. Frustrating, right? That’s the reality for many neurodivergent individuals when people assume limitations instead of possibilities.
This approach is particularly important for autistic individuals, as it ensures they are given opportunities to participate fully in education, relationships, and society without unnecessary barriers or biases. When we presume competence, we create environments where autistic people are supported in reaching their potential, rather than being underestimated or excluded.
Although this article may focus at times on autistic persons, presumed competence is important for all neurodivergent individuals, including those with intellectual disabilities, learning disabilities, ADHD, and more.
What Presumed Competence Means Day to Day:
Offering opportunities to engage in age-appropriate and meaningful activities, even if they require accommodations. Autistic individuals should not be excluded from experiences based on assumptions about their abilities. Whether it's schoolwork, hobbies, relationships, social events, everyone deserves the opportunity to learn, grow, and enjoy activities that align with their interests and developmental stage.
Understanding that behaviour is a form of communication, rather than assuming a lack of understanding or ability. Instead of dismissing behaviour as "difficult" or "inappropriate", we recognize that these actions are meaningful attempts to communicate.
Recognizing that growth and learning happen in different ways and on different timelines for each individual. It is not always a standard path! You want to value all forms of progress and avoid comparing to age based benchmarks. The goal is to provide opportunities for learning in ways that align with their strengths and interests at that time.
Respecting all forms of communication equally and ensuring that individuals have access to the tools that best support their self-expressing.
Presumed Competence - Its Impact
Individuals that are given support in an environment that believes in their abilities thrive! For example, they experience:
Higher self-esteem and confidence. Presumed competence fosters a positive self-identity and reduces internalized ableism.
Greater educational and social opportunities. Instead of being excluded based on assumptions about their abilities, individuals are included in meaningful activities with classmates, teammates, and family, with appropriate accommodations to support their participation.
Improved Communication Development - When given access to the right tools and given opportunity to express themselves and have a voice, individuals are more likely to effectively express themselves.
Stronger Relationships - Respecting and believing in an individual's competence leads to more genuine connections and interactions.
How to Foster Presumed Competence
Show the individual that asking for help is a strength and not a weakness. Many individuals face environments where they feel pressure to be independent in ways that don’t align with their needs. By modeling and reinforcing that asking for help is a normal and positive thing, you create a safe space for them to advocate for themselves. This means encouraging self-advocacy, respecting when they need support, and showing that receiving accommodations or assistance does not diminish their competence—it simply allows them to thrive
Give the individual the tools they need to navigate the world. Instead of assuming a person “can’t” do something, we should provide the right supports to bridge any gaps. True independence comes from having the right tools—not from struggling without them.
Do not stop believing in the potential that they have, even if progress looks different. Neurodivergent individuals learn and grow in their own way and at their own pace. Progress might not always follow a linear path, and it might look different from age based expectations. Instead of focusing on arbitrary milestones, celebrate every step forward—whether it’s a new way of expressing emotions, finding joy in a special interest, or developing skills that foster independence. Your unwavering belief in their potential creates an environment where they can explore, learn, and succeed without fear of failure.
Educate others about presumed competence. One of the biggest barriers neurodivergent individuals face is society’s low expectations. Help shift perspectives by educating teachers, family members, and peers about presumed competence. Share success stories and advocate for communication accessibility. By spreading awareness, you help create a world where autistic individuals are given the respect, opportunities, and support they deserve.
Conclusion
Imagine a world where neurodivergent individuals are not just included but truly valued—where their strengths are recognized, their voices are heard, and they have the tools to thrive. They are just as capable as anyone else; all they need is the opportunity to show it.
Video
This video featuring Jordyn Zimmerman is a good starting point to hear about presumed competence from an autistic adult. https://communicationfirst.org/see-us-hear-us/
If you want to get started on support first:
Unsure of what support you may need?
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IMPORTANT: Information shared by WonderTree is not intended to replace or be constituted as clinical or medical care. It’s intended for educational purposes only. Each child is unique, and the information provided may not be applicable to your specific situation. If you need support, please establish care with a licensed provider so that they can provide tailored recommendations for you or your child. This blog is non-monetized.
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