What do you like best about the forum

I love infodumping too! It's our natural way of sharing our passion and knowledge, a great example of a professional info dumper is a teacher/lecturer.

I don't do it as often as I would like, I say that but I frequently info dump on this forum. I quite like the word 'factoid' it is very stimmy. What is your favourite factoid/topic to infodump about? It would be great to learn more about your dedicated interests.

AuTriker said:

Maybe I am drawn to factoids as it is a way of giving the gift on an infodump in a smaller dose which is more bearable for NTs?

Maybe NT's don't really appreciate info dumping as knowledge and passion sharing in the same way we do. Often in a predominantly NT setting, autistic/neurodivergent infodumping is seen as trying to dominate conversation/only talk about what we want as opposed to our intention of spreading and sharing enthusiasm. This is an obvious example of The Double Empathy Problem - a clash of cultures.

AuTriker said:

I like the idea of support sharing,

So do I, it's a way of showing we care.

Definitely infodumping! And I enjoy other people infodumping, unless it is on a topic I dislike I suppose. I also like the mini version of it, the factoid. Maybe I am drawn to factoids as it is a way of giving the gift on an infodump in a smaller dose which is more bearable for NTs? The penguin pebble version of the infodump!

I like the idea of support sharing, I probably do this but it isn't always taken well, my husband doesn't like being asked if he has had enough water for example. But I guess I don't like being checked up on or reminded to do a thing unless I have actually forgotten (which does happen).

I like the forum because:

I'm able to understand more about autism and I am glad it's not just me who has it.

The people on here are lovely.

The posts are good to read.

I am starting to reply to threads more than I was before.

Mweekie xx

I am glad my comment made you smile. 

Shardovan said:

Wordiness is forgiven here. And understood. And reciprocated. 

Our natural autistic communication style is info dumping, it’s a very cool aspect of our autistic culture.

I would say we are very thorough, passionate and precise when we communicate with each other. According to social media there are 5 different neurodivergent love languages (familial/friendships and relationships languages):

The neurodivergent love languages are described in more depth below:

https://stimpunks.org/2022/01/22/the-five-neurodivergent-love-languages-2/

4 of the 5 languages are described in this graphic below:

https://www.pinterest.co.uk/pin/autismo--205124958019756365/

Which one do you relate to most? For me it is definitely info dumping and penguin pebbling, parallel play.

Thanks for the compliment.

"The fact that our responses to each other are usually like essays." This made me smile. Wordiness is forgiven here. And understood. And reciprocated. 

What I like about the forums is that I feel it offers something for everyone. It's a place for people seeking information and advice, a place for people wishing to engage in deep discussions about (almost) anything, a place where people can engage in light-hearted silliness, and a place where people can pour their hearts out when in need of a shoulder to cry on.

So true - and beautifully written.

The level of connection I feel with my autistic community that I don’t feel anywhere else.

The sense of deep belonging, which has given me more confidence in my autistic identity.

The empathy we share for each other. The intuitive understanding meaning there is no need to explain our autistic experiences- you just get it.

Helping my neurokin by sharing advice and personal experiences.

The autistic humour usually about everyday interactions with other neurotypes.

The fact that our responses to each other are usually like essays.

 I love how everyone in this autistic community is so friendly and passionate about our dedicated interests.

Feeling like I have found my autistic tribe.

Learning from each other.

Sharing mutual passions.

Our autistic culture.

I love being part of this autistic community, it is so meaningful for me. Thanks for starting a great discussion.

Trisha said:

I wish I can be here all the time

So do I! It’s our virtual Autopia!

I've not been here long but I like the friendly family atmosphere that's here. I felt it the first day and that's what made me decide to join and stay. 

The people are the best feature here. From all different walks of life. Colour and race are irrelevant here. Autism isn't a problem here, it is what connects us.

Haha no worries Shardovan 

Like everyone has written: a safe place to be yourself, share, feel understood, get support and kindness and not feel alone. I also like the fun topics: hobbies, favourite songs, etc.

I promise I didn't intentionally plagiarise you! (see below, which I started to type before I'd read everything above). I know it looks like I did, but I honestly wouldn't. Sorry! (compulsive irrational addition despite what I just said)

Kindred spirits. Never in precise overlap, and all the more interesting for it. A lot of empathy and kindness here. 

Kindred spirits who experience life in a similar way to me 

I discover that I'm not alone with my problems, people are having similar experiences to myself.

What I like best about his forum is that I can ask questions or express my opinion to help others. This site's experiences and social gatherings allow you to realise when you are right and wrong. Knowing that there will always be people to have our back has a sense of community that makes you feel less alone or feel misunderstood