Adults with autism prefer to communicate with others who also have autism: a mixed-method study

While prevailing theories suggest social interaction difficulties are inherent to individuals with autism, the theory of the double empathy problem (Milton, 2012) proposes that these difficulties result from a mismatch between neurologically different interaction partners. This theory also predicts less difficulty during interaction between individuals with autism. Existing studies are limited, warranting further investigation. In 2022, adults with autism completed an online mixed-method questionnaire, which included demographic questions, a question regarding language preference, 14 statements (N = 407) comparing various aspects of interaction between individuals with and without autism and six open-ended questions (N = 337). The sample includes adults spanning a range of ages and educational backgrounds. The results from the statements revealed that adults with autism experienced all, except for one, aspects of communication to be better and easier with others who also have autism than with others who do not. The only aspect of communication they did not experience to be better with others with autism was body language. The results from the open-ended questions mainly support the findings from the statements, but also provide additional nuance. Themes highlighted easier interactions between individuals with autism, characterized by mutual understanding and the absence of judgment. Additionally, when they know someone else also has autism, they feel less need to camouflage. However, some interaction difficulties were also noted. In conclusion, the experiences of adults with autism in our study align with the theory of the double empathy problem, however further systematic research is warranted to test this theory.