Published on 12, July, 2020
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.
Autistic children can have a much wider vocabulary and speak in a more adult style than non autistic children. They can miss and fail to understand the 'baby talk' stage and go straight to speaking in whole sentences with an advanced vocabulary.
I believe it is related to Hyperlexia, a condition related to autism.
https://www.autism.org.uk/advice-and-guidance/topics/related-conditions/related-conditions/all-audiences
www.spanglefish.com/.../hyperlexia-whatishyperlexia.asp
Hyperlexia is observed in children who demonstrate the following cluster of characteristics:
Personally I taught myself to read at a very early age. I believe it was before nursery school. I learned language and spelling from reading the dictionary a lot as a child. I would speak differently and was much happier conversing with adults than other children. My mum said that people used to ask if I had been to elocution lessons, as I did not pick up the local accent. I also did not pick up slang or swear words from my peers at school.
Unfortunately it makes us more of a target for bullying when we speak differently and use uncommon vocabulary. To others it may come across as showing off or trying to look intelligent, when that is not the intention at all.
https://www.thearticulateautistic.com/we-dont-use-big-words-to-show-off/
Autonomistic said:To others it may come across as showing off or trying to look intelligent, when that is not the intention at all.
Indeed. I suffer with this from others, because my preferred visual presentation does not align with a "Little Lord Fauntleroy" eloquence. I confuse most people. It seems to unsettle them.....or to put it another way...I unsettle them.