So. I've always had a problem with other people trying to have "banter" with me. Because of my autism - I struggle to get along with it and if I get angry they just say they're only having a laugh. Which makes me even angrier.
This has really been playing on my mind lately and you know what? I've had enough. I'm sick of trying to mask myself to fit in with other people. I'm sick of pretending that I'm in on the joke. I don't like it.
Next time someone does it to me - I'm going to make it very clear that I don't get the joke. I'm then going to demand that they explain it. Explain exactly why it's funny and if they say it's just banter or they're having a laugh I'm going to say "So making me feel bad is something you find funny?"
When they look shocked at what I've said I'll say"I'm Autistic. I don't understand this kind of humour and I never have done. So next time you try and do it to me, just be aware that all I'll see is somebody picking on an autistic person. And I will call you out EVERY time."
- If they complain I'll just shrug my shoulders and say something like"If you can't stand the heat, get out of the kitchen."
