Cognitive processes underlying social deficits One of the major difficulties in relating for many people on the spectrum is their difficulty with rapidly processing, multiple information simultaneously. People on the spectrum do well in static systems, were information is constant, logical, and predictable. Dynamic systems are any system whereby the information is rapidly changing and the meaning is relative to the context it is occurring. Such dynamic systems require reading between the lines for hidden meanings, and rapidly processing multiple channels of information. The meaning of this information is relative to the context of the situation; requiring strong central coherence (seeing the big picture). Since they have difficulty grasping the invisible social rules and understanding the subtle nonverbal communication, the best they can do is watch and imitate others in hopes of fitting in. This can be very taxing. The ability to simultaneously process multiple information is important for central coherence (seeing the big picture), which is important for theory of mind (being able to read and understand the thoughts, feeling, and perspectives of others). This ability to read the inner experiences of others is what provides rhythm to our interaction. It allows us to reference and provide meaning to what the other is saying and doing, and in turn pattern how we respond back. The latest brain research suggests that this problem is due to poor connectivity between the different areas of the brain. Individuals on the spectrum seem to have weaker neuro-pathways between the different areas of the brain (either underdeveloped or overdeveloped, but scattered, connections). This leads to poor communication between the different brain centers. It requires simultaneous communication among brain centers to reference and process multiply changing information (registering and integrating the information, comparing it to the context of the situation, evaluating it to past experiences and future expectations, apply meaning, responding to it and then evaluating the effects of his response). Social interaction (relating in the NT world) requires simultaneous processing numerous information (words, pragmatics, facial expressions, body language, intentions and perspective of the other, multiple meanings relative to context of conversation, past experiences with that individual, etc.). At the same time that we are referencing and evaluating what the other person is communicating, we are also simultaneously deciding how to respond back, next executing the response, and then referencing how the other person is reacting to our response (do they understand, how are they taking it, etc.). Being able to effectively interact in dynamic conversation requires this ability to coordinate this back and forth, rapidly changing interaction. You have to be able to figure out what to say, how to say it, and how to maintain and repair breakdowns in communication. This multi-tasking is almost impossible for those on the spectrum. People with ASD often do better in instrumental conversation, usually centered on sharing information about a specific topic. Usually this is sharing facts that are constant and static. This is easier to process and follows specific rules. Often the information is predictable, or at least logical, and doesnt require processing of dynamic flux. Interacting for sharing information is much more concrete and easier, than interacting to relate, which is not predictable or static. If neurotypical people could find a way to communicate with words only, and say exactly (literally) what they mean without relying on nonverbal cues, than relating for people with ASD would be much easier. Unfortunately, that is not how we relate. Our interactions are filled with vague hidden meanings which are often communicated by our facial expressions, body language, and intonation/fluctuations in our voice. How do we help make conversation easier? 1. Speak very literal; saying what you mean, leaving very little room for misunderstanding. Don’t use vague language, filled with multiple meanings, innuendos, sarcasm, analogies, etc. Say exactly what you mean, and mean exactly what you say. 2. Use a lot of concrete examples to clarify what you are saying. Then verify they understand it correctly. 3. Slow down the information you are giving, allowing the person to process what you are saying and meaning. Present information sequentially, rather than giving multiple information simultaneously. 4. Try not to jump from one topic to another without giving clear transition that you are doing so. 5. Make sure you get clarify that the person understands before moving on further in the topic. Don’t assume that the person understands your position, especially your thoughts, feelings, and perspectives on things. You have to verbally say them. By no means should this be viewed as condescending to the person on the spectrum. It has nothing to do with intelligence, but communication styles and processing differences. It would be similar talking to someone from a different country who doesn’t know your language very well. You simply have to slow it down, keep it simple, us very concrete, literal language, and make sure to clarify and verify what is said and meant. This allows everyone to interact and relate on safe grounds. Most of all, it allows both parties to be more comfortable relating. This series on “social struggles” can be found in the blue book, “Autism Discussion Page on the Core Challenges of Autism.”
Posted on: Fri, 26 Dec 2014 19:47:28 +0000
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