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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Identifying needs

It may be helpful to gather information about the child’s social communication and interaction across the following areas:

• Non-speaking interaction e.g. use of gesture, eye contact, observance of personal space

• Functional use of language and communication skills in social situations e.g. greeting and introducing oneself

• Social interaction e.g. recognising and responding to social cues, using and understanding facial expressions, starting conversation with others and engaging in reciprocal conversation

• Friendship, play and engagement in leisure activities and special interests e.g. sharing, taking turns, listening to others

• Participation e.g. understanding and following social rules of learning within a group

• Attention e.g. attending to social cues, engaging in joint attention and sharing experience

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