Autistic perspectives on autistic social communication

Abstract

Difficulties with socialising and communicating’ is part of the autism diagnostic criteria. However, new research and autistic self-advocacy are starting to challenge this. New frameworks for understanding autistic social communication (including neurodiversity and the double empathy problem) suggest that these difficulties are due to mutual misunderstanding between autistic and non-autistic people. To understand why these misunderstandings occur, we must first take an autistic perspective on social communication – examining wants, needs, expectations, and challenges. In this talk, Holly will cover some key concepts from two focus groups that asked autistic adults about these topics. (Invited speaker.)

Holly E. A. Sutherland

Doctoral Candidate