i experienced it in the same way, i tried telling my family too. it didn't work out for the most part, everyone tried but they just shoo it away as a "just madi" thing (my nickname). i thank you for being so open about this, i was expecting to be met with resistance. i don't know if asking an expert on autism is the best idea, they might not know the relevance of the phrase "everyone is autistic." i only say that because i had a similar experience when i explained people i knew also got diagnosed with support levels 1,2,3 i asked if i could have a level too. he was confused and said the levels weren't relevant. i understood it as not being knowledgeable about the topic but then again im not too sure, it is a personal choice whether or not you ask. i do also agree with your opinion about society seeing the more closed off you are the "more autistic" you seem. there's nothing wrong with being interested as well! (the term aspies and autists both are okay however it is dependent on what the person aligns with.) im quite opinionated about a lot of things, but i do try my best not to cause conflict.Dont be sorry.That was my experience for a while as well actually.and also people comparing me to people who cannot or do not know how to mask their traits.so i got alot of " you dont look or act autistic" and "but you werent that way before,why all of a sudden are you this way now?"(i forced myself not to stim or enjoy my interests out of fear of being judged and masked 24/7 even alone until it became voilent and not enjoyable) its just ignorance and i myself am also ignorant for the most part.i did try forcing my family to understand lol..but yeah in the end they accepted it when i got the informal diagnosis.discrimination is still prevalent sadly.i personally think the more introverted you are,the more traits you have.but! It doesnt mean you are actually autistic.but again i have not spoken to an expert in autism just yet.maybe they will have a difference of opinion and educate me on the reality of it.google is useful but not a great teacher all the same,which is why i am so interested in speaking to fellow aspies or autists lol..whatever the affectionate term is.i am as ignorant as a child as socrates was wont to say haha again i would love to hear your opinions in great detail..might change my view?