Communication

Communication, the act of transferring information, can be done verbally, through writing, or by using non-verbal signals, such as facial expressions or tone of voice.  The majority of what we communicate is done non-verbally. One of the particular characteristics of autism relates to communication. Some autistic individuals may have an extremely advanced vocabulary and may possess extensive knowledge in a particular field of expertise which they are keen to share with others. However, they may have difficulty interpreting verbal or non-verbal communication of others, understanding what other people are thinking or feeling, communicating their own thoughts or feelings or joining in a group discussion.   

Some of the issues individuals with autism experience around the topic of communication include: 

Interpreting things literally

People with AS may interpret communication in a very literal way and could find irony, figures of speech or hypothetical questions difficult to understand. They tend to interpret instructions rigidly and also expect that what they are being told is true.  In a professional environment, this may mean that they do not challenge project timelines or statements made, and may not realise when people are making fun.

Interpreting non-verbal communication

People with AS may have difficulty interpreting non-verbal communication such as body language, facial expressions or tone of voice.  They may misinterpret a smile as someone laughing at them, or may equate a loud tone of voice with anger. Some people may not realise when a conversation is over or if the other person is no longer interested in the topic.

Interpreting vague instructions/unclear speech

People with AS may feel uneasy if instructions are vague as they are not certain of what is expected of them.  Also, due to a literal way of thinking, figures of speech such as ‘there are plenty more fish in the sea’ can be particularly difficult to understand.

Being specific/talking too much

People with AS may have difficulty being specific or finding the right words to describe what they are thinking or feeling. They may also speak in highly technical terms or in a pedantic manner which may be difficult for others to understand.  If talking about their topic of interest they may not know when it is appropriate to stop or may interrupt others.

Not talking enough

When in larger groups, some people with AS may say very little or nothing at all.  They may not know when it is their turn to speak or may be anxious that what they wish to say may not be correct. This may prevent them from asking questions in a meeting or requesting help from colleagues when needed. 

Communication style / honesty

People with AS may have a very matter-of-fact and direct communication style and are renowned for their honesty.  They tend to state the facts as they see them, without emotion and regardless of the situation or person involved. 

Tone of voice

Some people with AS may speak in a monotonous tone. Although this is normal for them, this may come across to others as rather strange. Other people may speak in a very loud voice and may not realise that they are doing so. 

Eye contact

Due to difficulties processing information, or sensory issues, if there is a great deal of background noise, some people with AS may lose eye contact in order to focus on a conversation.