Power of Conversation, Use and Power of Non-Verbal Communication

Swain et al (2015) reminds us that greater social motivation may be associated with higher social anxiety among young adults with autism, suggesting that the desire to interact, be involved in conversations and rely on verbal communication may also increase anxiety.

Understanding the interactions of and in the community in which you are educated and live, must also be taught.

• Those with autism may not necessarily understand the indirect communication that others use.

For example, when navigating the world of relationships, young people with autism may not be aware of the many social conventions and structures they may need to be aware of to ask someone out on a date. 

Teaching and Learning the Hidden Curriculum to students with autism is important, as many often like to follow rules.  If they do not know a rule they will not follow it.  To read more about the experiences of  Judy Endow an autistic person who highlights the importance of teaching the hidden curriculum please click here.

Indirect communicators, who tend to act out their feelings rather than say them directly, are typically looking to save face or to avoid situations of conflict, where they may experience uncomfortable amounts of tension and unrest (Joyce, 2012).  They imply and hint rather than be explicit, so where does this leave the young person with autism? click here to find out.

As with many teenagers, those with autism can find it difficult to understand feelings of intimacy, attraction, and affection – in themselves and others. Unlike their typically developing peers, it might also be harder for them to express their feelings or ask for help. For tips on developing small talk for those with autism please click here

Hint: Check out, Raising Children Network (Australia) Limited.

Respectful relationships for teenagers: what do they look like?

Kari Dunn Buron, discusses the benefits of social stories for social awareness and emotion regulation to allow children and young people to become involved in conversations, learn the power of being an effective communicator, understanding the communication with and from others.  To listen to Kari Dunn Buron discuss the benefits of social stories please click here.

For tips on developing small talk for those with autism please Click here.