Autism and humour

I've just watched some episodes of Elementary (season 4) where Sherlock is dating an autistic woman (who describes herself as neuro-atypical). His character's behaviour also suggests he is on the spectrum.

It suddenly hit me how serious they both are - neither seem capable of sharing a joke ( with each other or with other friends/ colleagues) and they never laugh.

My partner and I are both "neuro-atypical" and we share a well developed sense of humour. Over the years, I have cried a lot, been worried a lot, but have laughed a lot too.

I can't think of one autistic character on TV, in movies etc that has been portrayed as having a sense of humour. Surely it's not that uncommon?

Parents
  • I would say my sense of humour is dry and dark too, but certainly not non-existent.  I am often told I'm quite serious but I think I just have a different sense of humour.  I struggle with some things that have predictable punchlines or that have exactly the same punchline every week.  Although I do like the League of Gentlemen humour.  Someone just introduced me to 'Inside no 9' which can be funny, sad, scary but always dark.

Reply
  • I would say my sense of humour is dry and dark too, but certainly not non-existent.  I am often told I'm quite serious but I think I just have a different sense of humour.  I struggle with some things that have predictable punchlines or that have exactly the same punchline every week.  Although I do like the League of Gentlemen humour.  Someone just introduced me to 'Inside no 9' which can be funny, sad, scary but always dark.

Children
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