KevinLA wrote:
Is this an AS trait?
Embarrassed to say I used to be.
I think many people with AS are often accused of being selfish and manipulative but I don't think they actually are. Being manipulative actually requires a good understanding of the thought processes of others, and a level of theory of mind that many with AS, especially children with AS, may lack to some extent.
As far as being selfish, everyone has needs. The difference between someone with AS and an NT is that, the NT can usually effectively communicate their boundaries and needs to others, and others can empathize with those needs, while people with AS often struggle to communicate their needs and boundaries, and NTs often have a difficult time empathizing with the needs of someone with AS.
For example, most NTs can understand someone needing coffee in the morning but they can't understand someone not being able to wear clothing that they themselves wear regularly.
Sometimes, though, people with Autism are selfish. It can take awhile to learn other people have feelings.
09 Oct 2012, 4:27 am
