Words/language as an autistic person

This thread is the result of a discussion with Out of Step but also something I've been thinking about this past year, since diagnosis.

Years ago, when my friend was diagnosed with Asperger's Syndrome, as was, I skim read some of his book: The Complete Guide to Asperger's Syndrome by Tony Attwood.

One section resonated.

I can't check out the wording now as I don't own it but it was about how autistic people may not speak as non autistic people do and may not use the language commonly used by their peers.

They may, for example, use what used to be called 'BBC English' as my mother did and I do, despite being working class and having gone to working class schools.

We didn't pick up a local accent.

However, some people may pick up the accent but be fascinated by words and use uncommon words.

Also, when I was at school I used words no-one knew the meaning of.

I did actually use a dictionary a lot when I was reading and learnt these more unusual words (and mispronounced them, as I still do) so that's probably part of the reason why.

My mother also used words I'd never heard anyone else use and said that when she was young she would read the dictionary.

She also constantly used the old sayings and phrases (eg a stitch in time saves nine) and I find my speech peppered with these phrases and anachronistic words.

I think that this difference also extends to speech patterns.

Anyone else experience similar and have any knowledge about this to add?

Thanks.

Parents
  • Per my last post, I was asked many times during my life by many people, what my accent is.

    Scandi and Scottish win with the guesses but people were/are generally perplexed by the way I speak.

    Also, I have always mispronounced words and I see the reason here:

    The word may be pronounced as it is written rather than spoken: the child

    learned language more by reading than from listening

    Fascinating stuff!

  • Scandi and Scottish

    To my ear and my taste, these are very lovely as either stand alone....or combined.

  • To my ear and my taste, these are very lovely as either stand alone....or combined.

    I agree.

    When I was young (not so much now as my voice has 'gravelled' I think over the years) I was also told I sounded like Marilyn Monroe.

    So, that's a bit of a weird combination.

    A Scottish Marilyn Monroe ...

  • Why yes indeed, my dear, tis but a trifling matter to find myself in Auf  Wiedersehen Pet territory.

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