Sometimes, it can be easier to connect with animals than people because interactions feel more predictable.

Talking to People

When talking to people, the conversation must go back and forth, which can be difficult sometimes. I have no control over what someone is saying or going to say, so it’s challenging, especially if it is a new subject I haven’t encountered before. It is not that I don’t enjoy talking to people, because I do. I enjoy catching up with friends and family, and it is easier to talk to them than to someone I don’t know. With someone I am not familiar with, I worry more about what I am saying and how to say it, as well as keeping the conversation going. Talking for a long time without a break can be exhausting, and I need to stop for tea and biscuits halfway through 😂.

There are so many social rules, but I have learned a lot over the years, and I am better at understanding them. However, facial expressions, taking time to think, saying the right thing, and tone of voice can still sometimes puzzle me.

Image by Gerd Altmann from Pixabay

Talking to Animals

I have always found it easier to talk to animals than to people. They do not have complicated social rules. I also control the conversation, and the interactions are short. This means I don’t have to worry about keeping the conversation going, worry about judgment, and I can take as long as I want. Animals seem to act predictably, behave consistently, and accept any input.

Final Thoughts

I love spending time with friends and family, but my understanding of communication is a little different. I love to share ideas, enjoy deep conversations, and want to have friendships. It’s not that I don’t enjoy communicating. I have many shared interests with my friends that I enjoy discussing.

There is more awareness nowadays, so people are more understanding. Autistic communication can be different. However, I don’t think there is a single right way to communicate, and I feel that what matters most is the connection and understanding among family, friends, pets, and colleagues.

Further Reading:

‘They ask no questions and pass no criticism’: A mixed-methods study exploring pet ownership in autism – PMC

Companion animals in families of children with autism spectrum disorder: Lessons learned from caregivers.: Journal of Family Social Work: Vol 21 , No 4-5 – Get Access

The social skills and attachment to dogs of children with autism spectrum disorder – PubMed

Children with autism who live with pets are more assertive | ScienceDaily