Autistic individuals often face challenges with social communication, a core criterion for an autism diagnosis. Traditionally, these difficulties were viewed as impairments specific to autistic people. However, recent research highlights that communication breakdowns occur both ways—non-autistic individuals also struggle to understand autistic people. This phenomenon is known as “the double empathy problem.”
The Double Empathy Problem
In her new book, Understanding Others in a Neurodiverse World, Dr. Gemma Williams explores the double empathy problem through the lens of linguistics. One key theory she discusses is “relevance theory,” which helps explain how we interpret what others mean.
Consider the phrase, “It’s getting a bit chilly.” Depending on the context, this could imply:
- “I’m cold.”
- “Could I borrow a jumper, please?”
- “Is it okay if I shut the window?”
- “It’s probably time to head home soon.”
Words alone have limited meaning. We infer the intended meaning based on context and our ability to gauge the speaker’s intentions. Historically, autism researchers believed that misunderstandings were due to autistic individuals’ inability to recognise intentions. However, we now understand that these misunderstandings are mutual, and relevance theory helps explain why.
Interpretation and Relevance Theory
Our brains use shortcuts to interpret others’ words by evaluating the effort required to understand the intended meaning. Similarity between individuals facilitates easier interpretation. However, autistic and non-autistic people experience and interpret the world differently, leading to communication challenges.
Recognising this is crucial as social communication difficulties impact various aspects of an autistic person’s life, including healthcare, social interactions, education, employment, and housing. Poor communication can lead to serious health issues, social isolation, and significant barriers in many areas of life.
Improving Communication
To enhance communication between autistic and non-autistic people, it’s essential not to assume common ground. Here are some strategies:
- Avoid Assumptions: Approach interactions without assuming shared perspectives.
- Cultural Sensitivity: When interacting with people from different cultures or languages, we make extra efforts to understand their viewpoints. Apply this mindset to interactions with autistic individuals.
- Contextual Interpretation: Like watching a foreign language TV show, focus on grasping the intended message rather than every word or exact grammar.
- Elf Communication: In international business, English as a lingua franca (Elf) users develop new language norms together. Similarly, adapt and create shared communication norms with autistic individuals.
Jim Sinclair, an American autistic rights activist, emphasised this approach in their seminal speech, “Don’t Mourn For Us,” at the 1993 International Conference on Autism. Adopting this mindset can bridge the communication gap, fostering better understanding, empathy, and connection between autistic and non-autistic people.
By understanding and addressing the double empathy problem, we can improve communication and create a more inclusive and supportive environment for autistic individuals. Embracing these strategies will not only help autistic people but also enrich interactions and relationships for everyone involved.
