Autism Spectrum Disorder

Strengths

• Honest
• Persistent
• Pure emotions
• Innovative and think outside the box
• Do not put up with the status quo

Challenges

• Confusion
• Sensory sensitive
• Seeking belonging

Outsider’s Experience

• Developmental challenges
• Understanding
• Intense

Connection

Connection can be hard due to several factors

• Rejection sensitivity
• Misunderstandings are common: need for clarity versus "being difficult"
• Impatience on part of the listener
• Social or relational differences

We prefer to receive care in many ways, and often. Words and actions need to match.

Deep connection can be hard for the neurocomplex to get to, unless the person we are with offers and invites us; this tells us we are safe.