Double Empathy Problem

Are you familiar with the Double Empathy problem coined by Damien Milton? The double empathy problem is a way for us to understand the biases that exist in our neurotypical-dominant society when it comes to cross-neurotype communication.

At times, there is a disconnect with the way autistic and allistic (non-autistic) people communicate, interact, show emotion and experience the world. This means that while both groups may communicate well with people of their own neurotype, they may struggle to understand each other’s thoughts, feelings and behaviours..

Double empathy can become a challenge in the workplace when allistics and autistics interact with each other and are unaware of the limits of cross-neurotype understanding. Unfortunately, this can also impact how autistic individuals are perceived and treated by others causing a negative perception. On a larger scale, this can lead to additional challenges such as social stigma, stereotyping, exclusion, mistrust, misunderstanding and discrimination.

A reminder that autistic individuals are NOT socially deficit, rather the responsibility is not solely on autistic individuals to learn about neurotypical social norms but for ALL individuals to seek to learn and understand each other better.

In 2024 its time we start to challenge our perceptions and unconscious bias and look for opportunities to educate and build the capacity of organisations.

Please contact me to learn more about NeuroEdge’s range of Neurodiversity Education and Awareness offerings for workplaces.

This visual was created by @Mountika.studio and shared via their Instagram account.