Changing the Subject
Some of my friends with autism tend to talk rather obsessively about the same topic. One-track conversation is often irritating, causing others to avoid these one-sided conversations. How can we help teach people with autism to talk about a variety of topics, a skill critical to the fine art of conversation?
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1. Understanding the issue. Because empathy is a trait that can be lacking in individuals with autism, we may need to help our friends understand that their obsession with one topic is irritating. They may not be able to understand why their topic is boring to others, but they need to know that talking about one topic over and over again often rubs people the wrong way.
2. Finding topics. The key to success in broadening conversation is to help our friends with autism select two or more different topics. General topics of interest to others include pets, vacations, family, favorite music or books, and happenings at school.
3. Developing stories. Some individuals with autism can converse about a topic extemporaneously, but others may need help developing a repertoire of short, to-the-point, interesting stories to share in conversations with family, friends, and casual acquaintance.
4. Rehearsing conversations. Some people with autism can practice conversing with others through social stories and role-playing. Others must be taught step-by-step to listen to others, wait their turn, tell their story, then respond to comments or questions about their story.
5. Changing the subject. The most important factor for individuals with autism who tend to perseverate on one topic is to learn to tell a story just one time, then to move to another topic the next time they want to join the conversation.
TIP FOR THE DAY: All of this is much easier said than done. But, with patience and a bit of creativity, we can help our friends with autism expand the topics of their conversations.
NOTE TO READERS AND LISTENERS: I am Cathy Knoll, a board certified music therapist and long-time friend of many folks with autism. At FAQautism.com we are committed to providing free, practical, everyday tips for making life better for people with autism. Feel free to send me a confidential email at talk@FAQautism.com with your thoughts or challenging situations or innovative solution. And don’t forget to check out our website for a wealth of ideas and a glimpse into the world of autism. http://FAQautism.com
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