The way I communicate.

I have High-Functioning Autism. I am a very literal thinker and my speech may sometimes be a little blunt. I don't usually use symbolism or hidden meanings in my words. I have a very different sense of humor than most folks. And my body language varies in reliability.

Often the subject matter I am interested in is very boring to NTs, and what NTs are interested in is very boring to me.

When I hold a conversation with an NT, misunderstandings pop up very frequently because both parties involved are misinterpreting each others words-- NTs try to put extra meaning into my words that isn't there, and I don't pick up on the hidden meaning that exists in their words.

Body language plays an integral part in NT communication. My own body language is often misinterpreted by NTs, whereas I misinterpret or forget to interpret NT body language.

How frustrating!

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[claudlili]

I'm so impressed by your self awareness and the way you express yourself and clearly communicate your experience to us viewers. thank you so much for doing this. My son was just diagnosed with mild autism,he's 9 yrs old. I thought his diagnosis was mistaken until I saw your videos. Can you share how and when you were diagnosed and what interventions helped you? I'm not sure how to go about helping my son. Thank you so much.

[CleverGenevieve]

@claudlili I was diagnosed around age 8. My mother denied it (and still does), and so I have not received any interventions. I am the way I am through lots of trial-and-error, and determination. My husband has also helped me alot by being very supportive and understanding. Such as ordering my food for me at a restaurant when I am unable to speak to the waitress, giving me big tight hugs when I am overwhelmed, etc.

[2008misspyt]

What is that a tattoo of on your finger? By the way, I think your awesome!

[CleverGenevieve]

@2008misspyt

That tattoo is my wedding ring. I have a band where a traditional gold ring would normally go, and on the middle section of my finger is a "C" for Crane, my husband. I love it!

[CleverGenevieve]

@CleverGenevieve He has a matching tattoo ring, only his band is thicker, and he has "W" for Whitney.  :)

[BrigidsVeil]

My almost 13 yr old is an Aspie. When my son is "hateful" sounding, etc I ask "are you mad or upset?" (or whatever is appropriate.) Especially if there is no reason for him to be. If he is, he says "Yes" and I KNOW he is- he is that blunt. There are NO hidden meaning in his words. If he says “No” then I know he did not mean the way it came out. I ASK. I always ASK before I get upset or offended. If he read this I would have to tell him the CAPS were not yelling, but emphasizing.

[CleverGenevieve]

@BrigidsVeil I wish more people would be thoughtful enough to ask. Even people who have known me for years will get upset at me for little misunderstandings arising from my mere tone of voice. I always try to ask if I am confused about someone's tone.

[tommyw8576]

I myself have Asperger's Syndrome & Cerebral Palsy.

[aspietrait101]

Please keep doing follow-up vids on this topic. It would be great if you can help us reduce these illogical misunderstandings. You always find NTs who want to think the worst of people, which does not gel well with us Aspies.

[atamagaiida]

For an Autistic person like myself, the falsely perceived "snapping" is something I can relate to all too well. Even my own family members think I am somewhat angry sometimes when I'm not in the slightest. The saddest thing is, if you (the autistic individual) can seem quite Normal NT for certain amounts of time, it is as if people forget your short comings in social situations. I am very good at socializing in some cases, however, I can never exactly be NT in terms of socializing :-/

[khurley77]

I'm Sorry. I meant to say more. My grandaughter has high funtioning autism. She is 13. I really appreciate your saying these things. Madison is also very quiet. She is 13 and I appreciate this glimpse iinto her thoughts that you have given me. Mdison has not received any interventions to speak of because her parents were so young and had so amny of their own issues. Rahter than just go on and on about our problems, let me say thank you for expressing yourself in this manner. I will b

[khurley77]

Hi Clever Genevieve,

[amfris2]

@CleverGenevieve The differences are sometimes so subtle.  It is easy to get frustrated. I'm sure that my son is an aspie, they have placed a label of developmental delay at the moment. I think I misinterpret him often. I take it as disrespect. I need to start asking. That is such a wonderful idea. He's so on edge now. I think I've gotten so upset with him and he had no idea why so he worries that everything he does is going to upset me. Im ashamed.

[2008misspyt]

@CleverGenevieve oh ok...that's pretty cool