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Ask PBC: Your Mental Health Q&A
Q. How can I communicate most effectively with someone who has Autism or Asperger’s Syndrome?
Kurt Jensen, Psy.D., responds: For an up-close view of an Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), the average American need only go as far as their living room. There they can watch more than a dozen TV series, from comedies to children’s shows, where a primary character has (or displays the traits and symptoms of) ASD. These fictional portrayals are guided by finely polished scripts and uncluttered story lines, often closing with pretty “bow-tie” endings that suggest a “happily-ever-after” conclusion. Real life interactions and relationships with people on the Spectrum, though, are rarely so neat and clean; relations can be uncomfortable and demanding, and may at times lead caregivers to question their skills. Communicating with children and adults with high-functioning Autism or Asperger’s can be particularly challenging, in part because they often appear “normal” but may not socialize or behave in predictable, “socially acceptable” ways. Because they look and often act in a conventional, “neurotypical” manner, friends and family may come to expect this behavior routinely, overlooking the underlying ASD condition. How, then, can we improve our communications and relationships with people on the Spectrum? Below is a list of several strategies that may help, approaches that are likely to serve the best interests of ASD and caregiver/ friend alike: 1. When speaking with a person on the Spectrum, try to find a location that offers few distractions or sources of stress. Avoid places that might put exceptional demands on the senses (e.g., loud noises, bright/flashing lights, crowded areas). 2. Provide adequate “personal space” to the person with ASD, as they may find touch uncomfortable or even painful, and might be stressed by “close quarters.” Avoid using touch without first asking permission. 3. People with ASD are often hesitant to start conversations or discuss topics of interest. Feel free to ask questions and try to engage the person in “give-and-take” discussions on various subjects. 4. Go “slow and steady” in forming a relationship, as people with Autism are prone to experience social anxiety and concern about communicating with others. 5. Perhaps most importantly, read and learn about Autism. Gain at least a basic understanding of the disorder and the challenges ASD people face on a day-to-day, moment-to-moment basis. Your appreciation of the symptoms they struggle to overcome and the difficulties they routinely confront can greatly improve your ability to connect with and assist a person with ASD. “Your Mental Health Q&A” is part of a Beachwood community service program provided by PBC. Email your questions to info@psychbc.com. All identifying information will be held in strictest confidence in the PBC secure email system.
Seasons change
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For a confidential conversation about including the Jewish Federation in your estate plan, please contact Carol Wolf at 216.593.2805 or e-mail cwolf@jcfcleve.org. We look forward to hearing from you.
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