cross-posted from: https://lemmy.world/post/12320962

Neurotypicals, what do autistic people look like to you?

Trying to get an idea of how NTs see us. I know that when I see autistic people, I see someone that’s like me. Obviously, that’s not how NTs perceive us, so what do we look like to yall??

  • SoleInvictus@lemmy.world
    41·
    9 months ago

    Not really all that different. I have had multiple autistic friends and coworkers. Only two things really stand out and they’re absolutely generalizations that are untrue for some people and exist on a continuum for the rest.

    First, I find the autistic crowd interrupts people more, sometimes a lot more, and some ramble quite a bit without getting to the point. It can be frustrating for the NTs and I’ve had to implement conch shell protocols and thought mapping so we can get through meetings and conversations effectively.

    Second, the autistic folks tend to be blunter in speech but also often can take things straight. I don’t have to dance around issues as much. We put everything out on the table, work through it, then move on.

    Edit: I should mention that I’m neurotypical but have CPTSD due to parental abuse. Those with CPTSD can have significant behavioral overlap with autism. Before getting a lot of therapy, I displayed multiple traits often associated with autism, including alexithymia. Thanks Dad!

    • schmorp@slrpnk.netEnglish
      5·
      9 months ago

      Sometimes I wonder if all of us spectrumy people carry some kind of personal or deep family trauma.

      • leds
        111·
        9 months ago

        I’ve seen the theory that autistic traits are just PTSD from the constant sensory overload trauma.

          • leds
            13·
            9 months ago

            Plus the trauma of being dismissed, not taking seriously by parents, teachers, doctors, etc becuase your reality doesn’t match theirs. (You’re too sensitive/ it is for your own good/etc)