While non-autistic people often prioritise social norms in an interaction, such as engaging in small talk and following a linear, reciprocal, conversation, Autistic people tend to value direct conversations and the ability to share ideas and information inherently interesting to them (Dunn et al., 2023).
Slow Down. Another thing that's important to do when you experience conflict is slow down and take deep breaths. Fights happen so fast and can easily trigger intense emotional responses that make conflict worse. It actually can be helpful to even ask for some time to process how you are feeling.
Autistic people are more likely to connect with others over a shared interest. They may avoid 'small talk' as a result. Prefer conversation to be slower-paced, so that they have more time to process what is being said. They may find socialising in groups difficult, as a result of this.
They might help you with tasks, fix things for you, or offer practical assistance. These actions are their way of showing care and affection, often speaking louder than words. By doing things that make your life easier or more pleasant, they demonstrate their love and commitment.
When interacting with an adult with autism, be literal, clear, and concise. Avoid the use of slang, nuance, and sarcasm. These forms of communication may be confusing and not easily understood by a person on the autism spectrum.
Research tells us that autism tends to run in families, and a meta-analysis of 7 twin studies claim that 60 to 90% of the risk of autism comes from your genome. If you have a child with autism, you are more likely to have another autistic child. Your other family members are also more likely to have a child with ASD.
The "6-second rule" is a communication strategy used to support autistic individuals by giving them extra processing time after being asked a question. Instead of expecting an immediate response, a person using the rule will pause for about six seconds after asking a question before repeating it or moving on.
Rather than using traditional flirting techniques like playful banter or subtle body language, autistic individuals might express interest by: Initiating in-depth conversations about shared interests. Being exceptionally reliable and consistent in their interactions.
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The Autism Spectrum Disorder person often has no idea what he or she is feeling, and even less how you are feeling. Discussions tend to stay at a superficial level, often focused on facts, ignoring subtly and nuance, and with little regard to multiple perspectives on any given position.
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Autistic people often communicate more directly and may struggle with reading social cues and body language, leading to differences in how they engage in conversation compared to non-autistic people.
Many autistic people experience hypersensitivity to bright lights or certain light wavelengths (e.g., LED or fluorescent lights). Certain sounds, smells, textures and tastes can also be overwhelming. This can result in sensory avoidance – trying to get away from stimuli that most people can easily tune out.
Chinning is a form of repetitive self-stimulatory behavior (stimming) that you may notice in children or adults with autism. It involves pressing, rubbing, or holding the chin against objects, surfaces, or even hands to gain sensory input or comfort.
Autism looping is a common experience for people on the autism spectrum. It happens when repetitive thoughts get stuck in a cycle and are hard to stop. Many autistic people face this kind of thinking, and it can be tough on their mental health.
In autistic people this can result in a meltdown (the equivalent of the 'fight' response) which is often mistaken for a temper tantrum. Meltdowns can be expressed verbally (eg, shouting, growling, or crying), physically (eg, kicking or flapping) or a mixture of both ways.
What not to say if someone reveals that they are autistic to you
Small changes
For those with high autistic traits, attraction may not hinge on mainstream ideals of beauty, but rather on subtle cues that resonate with their own internal experiences—whether it's comfort, familiarity, or identity reflection.
Many autistic people enjoy tight, deep-pressure hugs because such a motion can greatly calm their emotional well-being. The pressure may also feel similar to how a weighted blanket can feel. This can be super helpful to limit any nervous system disturbances a person may have, such as anxiety and sensory overload.
After a breakup, it's normal to feel sad, angry, or anxious about the future. If you are navigating life with autism, these feelings may be even stronger or harder to manage. If you're struggling after a breakup, talk to someone you trust. This could be a friend, family member, or therapist.
Children with autism may exhibit rigidity, inflexibility and certain types of repetitive behavior such as: Insistence on following a specific routine. Having difficulty accepting changes in the schedule. A strong preoccupation with a particular interest.
In general, people who have an active lifestyle are much more emotionally resilient and focused. There also seems to be some evidence that physical exercise helps people with depression and ADHD, which are commonly co-occurring conditions with autism.
Floortime does not work on speech, motor or cognitive skills in isolation. It addresses these areas through its focus on emotional development. Overall, this method encourages children with autism to push themselves to their full potential. It develops “who they are,” rather than “what their diagnosis says.”