Written by: Rebecca Rosenzweig, BA :: Peer Mentor – Transitions Program

Common Barriers to Commitments for Autistic People

Autistic individuals frequently have the skills for success in education, careers, and relationships, but appear ‘stuck.’ This is because COMMITTING IS SO MUCH MORE THAN JUST INTEREST OR ABILITY.

Consider the common barriers to commitments for autistic people:

THE SENSORY ENVIRONMENT 

• What sensory environment can I expect?  What happens if I cannot tolerate the sensory environment and I have already committed? Typically, we don’t find this out until we try it. But, what happens if I have already applied and enrolled in school and paid tuition? What happens if I have already gone through the HR forms and people are depending on me? Signing a form inherently feels “permanent” in nature. 

THE SOCIAL SITUATION

• If I have a tendency to communicate things differently and interpret language literally, will my (peers, coworkers, classmates) understand? How will this impact my ability to get through? What misunderstandings will occur? What will the repercussions of those misunderstandings be? 

THE UNSPOKEN RULES

• What about learning the unspoken expectations and new social culture?  New schools and jobs do not typically provide a rule book with their unsaid social and cultural expectations. We may not be able to learn or even perceive these if they are not articulated in words. 

THE SOCIAL DYNAMIC SHIFTS

• The social expectations at work or school change throughout the day. Chatting with a friend in class vs walking alongside that friend between classes have different social expectations. Friendly chatting at work and going to lunch with a coworker outside of work have different social expectations, even if it is the same coworker both times. In class or at work we have a safety net of conversation starters and expected topics, like homework or a work task. Outside of those environments, the expectations around the discussion topic, self-expression, and emotional expression are different. The walks between classes, or grabbing lunch together can feel like uncharted territory- each carrying their own energy and tone. 

So, while part of it is the interest in the subject and the skills to execute the task, there is also this underlying, foundational fabric of neurodivergence in a society designed for neurotypicality.  

An autistic person may instinctively know that an opportunity is not “right” and unable to commit. Even if the autistic person has refined the skills to engage with the opportunity it is not always just about the skills. Furthermore, autistic people may not know that these barriers are different, unique, or something to be brought up in the first place, since they do not know what it is like to interact with the world through a neurotypical lens. 

NAVIGATING A NEUROTYPICAL WORLD WITH A NEURODIVERGENT MINDSET

Progress towards neurodiversity inclusion is happening, albeit gradually. While we’re seeing positive changes, full accessibility remains a work in progress. Until then, consider these points:

SENSORY

• Experience the sensory environment in advance. If you’re applying to college, schedule a visit to sit in on a class. 

(PART A) – COMMITMENTS

• Commitments don’t always have to be rigid. For autistic individuals, trying something out is often essential to determine compatibility. Even with contractual obligations, such as a job agreement, it’s important to recognize that leaving is possible if the fit isn’t right. Understanding contract terms and allowing for exit strategies can actually encourage initial engagement.

(PART B) – THE FLIP SIDE OF PART A

• Neurodivergent individuals often require an adjustment period when entering new environments. For instance, the initial weeks of a new job can be particularly challenging as they adapt. However, this discomfort is typically temporary. With patience and support, they can flourish in their role.

IDENTIFY SOMEONE WHO “GETS IT”

• Establish a support network – a therapist, trusted friend, or other reliable individual – who stays informed about your experiences. This ensures they’re prepared to offer strategic guidance and emotional support when needed, helping you navigate and process new situations.

By considering these concepts, autistic individuals can find it more attainable to overcome barriers and engage with commitments.