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Theory of Mind

Jon

I understand that Asperger's Syndrome is linked with difficulties relating to theory of mind and empathy but what I am wondering is 'why?'. It is one of the defining attributes of AS? GP's and other healthcare proffessionals may readily idntify and accept TOM but in my experience there is never any kind of explanation as to 'why'. I know that the causes of autism are still not fully understood but it is hard for me to accept symptoms and traits without really knowing why. From what I can gather there are some neurological differences but how that translates I am not exactly sure.

With regard to 'empathy' I am unsure that is really a precise enough definition. For example many types of people appear to lack empathy for example playing loud intrusive music, violence, steeling etc. These are just general examples as of course people are motivated by greed etc and are fully aware of the affect there actions have on other people.

From what I have read the difference between NT and AS are that the AS may use logic in a situation where NT uses intuition. Even so I struggle with the workings of this.

Any thoughts?

Parents

  • Hi -

    I know that I have no empathy but what I do have and learn over time is understanding of where people are at. For example my Mum misses my Dad who died and I know that makes her sad sometimes so I have learned to understand that when she is sad it might be because she misses my Dad and when people die, others are sad.

    That is a fairly simple example but it can be applied to all sorts of situations.

    I have recently been quite unwell and have developed an understanding of various hospital procedures and what it feels like to be poorly and that can help me understand others when they are ill.

    The hospital I attended were BRILLIANT. They were very understanding about my autism and catered for my individual needs very well. Susequently I was described as a model patient and the consultant commented he was really happy to meet my needs as it clearly helped both of us. What an amazing man he was/is. I have been greatly encouraged by this experience.

Reply

  • Hi -

    I know that I have no empathy but what I do have and learn over time is understanding of where people are at. For example my Mum misses my Dad who died and I know that makes her sad sometimes so I have learned to understand that when she is sad it might be because she misses my Dad and when people die, others are sad.

    That is a fairly simple example but it can be applied to all sorts of situations.

    I have recently been quite unwell and have developed an understanding of various hospital procedures and what it feels like to be poorly and that can help me understand others when they are ill.

    The hospital I attended were BRILLIANT. They were very understanding about my autism and catered for my individual needs very well. Susequently I was described as a model patient and the consultant commented he was really happy to meet my needs as it clearly helped both of us. What an amazing man he was/is. I have been greatly encouraged by this experience.

Children
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