Work situation getting weird

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So I work at a day program for people with developmental disabilities and there is a guy who comes with an autism or AS diagnosis who seems to be on a very similar functioning level to me. Lately I've realized that I really like it when he's there because it's the one time in my life I can hang out with another person whose brain works the same way mine does. But I'm supposed to be the "teacher" and him the "student," even though it feels ridiculous sometimes because we are the same age and on similar levels.

It's only weird if you take it a step further and get together with him or exchange phone numbers or favor him over other people. As long as you don't overstep those boundaries then its fine to chat with him and be friendly, I figure its a comfort to him that a teacher understands him.

You see him as a peer, which he sounds like he is. The same thing probably happens to college teachers who have students who are their own age.

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I'm giving it another shot. We will see.
My forum is still there and everyone is welcome to come join as well. There is a private women only subforum there if anyone is interested. Also, there is no CAPTCHA.

The link to the forum is http://www.rightplanet.proboards.com

Yes, I like what OliveOilMom is saying. Think of him as a current student and potentially a future colleague. And of course, even if the two of you become friends, you need to treat all students with equal respect, as I'm sure you know. And you need to grade each student in a fair and equal way.

Well, I don't grade people. It's life skills education. But I do see your point.