Autism is a diagnosis that can cover a variety of difficulties with social skills, repetitive activities, speech, and nonverbal communication. Estimates from the CDC’s Autism and Developmental Disabilities Monitoring (ADDM) Network show that 1 in 44 (or 2.3%) of children in the US have ASD.
Society frequently finds it challenging to be compassionate and empathetic toward persons with ASD because autism is a relatively uncommon condition. As a result, they start to feel ignored, misunderstood, and disrespected.
Respect is one of the most basic human values that we all seek to uphold and extend. Whether we are aware of it or not, respect is something that we all frequently think about. And those who have autism deserve respect and recognition for more than just their disorder.
It could occasionally be difficult to have a coherent conversation with someone who is on the spectrum. Although no two people with ASD have the same language and social skills, adopting the following strategies might help you have more successful conversations:
Speak to them as you would speak to any other adult.
Treat adults with ASD with respect and in the same way you would any other person. Your vocabulary can change depending on the developmental level to whom you are speaking, but there is no reason to act any different.
Use literal and clear language
Another thing to bear in mind is that individuals with ASD frequently struggle with understanding humor, non-literal language, turn-taking, and conversational nuance. It might be required to use literal and simple language rather than sarcasm and slang, which could make it more difficult for them to follow the conversation and prevent confusion.
Be a good listener
When communicating with adults who have ASD, active listening is a crucial ability. By taking the time to listen, you may demonstrate to them your concern and support. Ask extra questions to get a better understanding of what they are trying to say if you do not comprehend what they are saying.
Give them time to respond
It is important to allow ample time when communicating as not everyone with an autism spectrum disorder has the same processing speed. Similar to average adults, people with autism or other special needs occasionally require a little more time to take in and process information before responding to you.
Don’t speak as if the person is not in the room
In a group setting, do not talk about them as if they’re not in the room. It is easy to be drawn into this trap – especially if others are talking about this person in his or her presence. You may teach people how to be more supportive of adults with ASD by setting an example of acceptable behavior.
It is crucial for those of us who are the relatives, friends, and supporters of people with ASD to acknowledge and respect them as adults and to work with them to develop as much independence and self-worth as they can.
Keep in mind that everyone – with or without autism – is different and communicates differently.
References:
https://www.appliedbehavioranalysisprograms.com/lists/5-tips-working-adults-autism-spectrum/
https://www.achievebeyondusa.com/how-to-talk-to-someone-with-high-functioning-autism/
