Social understanding and relationships

Double empathy problem

Social communication and interaction differences are common amongst autistic people. Autistic and non-autistic people can therefore find it difficult to understand each other. The fact that both people in the interaction have trouble with understanding is why the theory is called the double empathy problem, as it is not a singular problem located in any one person.

Without sufficient understanding of each other’s needs children can experience difficulties in navigating their social world, which can in turn impact their sense of wellbeing and belonging.

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Understanding communication in context

Learning about a child’s communication style can help adults create environments that support connection, participation and comfort. Rather than focusing on conformity to neuro-majority expectations, communication can be understood through the following areas:

• Non-speaking interaction: Ways a child expresses connection or interest through AAC, gestalt, gesture, movement, sounds, body language, proximity, or eye gaze when they choose to use it.
• Expressive communication: How a child communicates ideas, interests, preferences or emotions. This may include speech, gestalt, AAC, echolalia, scripts, movement, or play.
• Relational communication: How a child engages in shared experiences or collaboration. Participation may include parallel play, shared exploration, commenting, offering objects, or joining groups on their own terms.
• Friendship, play and shared interests: How a child interacts through mutual interest, shared activities, special interests, play, or leisure in ways that feel meaningful and comfortable.
• Participation: How a child chooses to take part in social or learning environments, and what supports enable them to feel included and safe.

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