Telling others you think they're an Aspie

[Sportster]

. . .

 

[paloftoon]

If you do bring it up, you should 1-1 with whoever you want to talk to. Being labeled autistic is a personal thing to most people. Try not to flaunt it or be overbearing to whom you speak to. They may see this is as a bad thing, so be wary. Unless you're a licensed professional, I wouldn't make any guarantees. You can mention that based on your personal knowledge and experience, this might be something worth looking it to. Then let the family decide on their own since you're not part of the family (unless you are in some way, which could easily change how you should handle the situation.) It's nice that you want to do something nice for the family, but they might not take it that way at all, so be careful, and be slow with how you make the reveal too possibly.

 

[Ste11aeres]

I don't think it would mean anything to her parents, unless they already have a deep understanding of Aspergers. It might mean something to her, but very likely not to them.

 

[wyverary]

If you bring it up with anyone, I would say it should be with the girl herself. I think parents can often be over sensitive and not appreciate comments from others about their children. From what you describe, it sounds like she's doing just fine in life, and maybe she would even be interested in the possibility of her having AS. You could bring it up with her in a friendly manner...after all, you're on the spectrum yourself! She might appreciate having that little extra thing with which to bond with her uncle.

 

[Aspieistj]

My best friend’s daughter (20-years-old) has adopted me as an uncle. In fact, in the event I expire, go missing, or am assimilated by the Borg or eaten by zombies, she gets my entire estate. I share this to illustrate the relationship I have with her and her parents.

With that said, I was wondering if anyone has encountered a situation where it’s obvious someone is an Aspie, but relatives (parents, etc.) do not see it. Savannah has all the characteristics. Unlike me, she does not have a Non Verbal Learning Disorder. She's quite intelligent. She’s a voracious reader, catalogs facts, blurts out inappropriate things, is very naïve, and is a rocker and hand-flapper.

As the old saying goes, “It takes one to know one.” I would stake a year’s salary on her being an Aspie. I’ve shared my diagnosis with her folks, but their response was, “Uh, okay.” There was no more discussion. I can’t help but wonder if Savannah and/or her folks should be made aware of the possibility, or is this something that is none of my business?

She still lives at home and was home-schooled, so she has not had much social interaction. Also, they live out in the country. Farm folks tend not to know many people.

Any opinions will be welcome.

Do you think her behavior makes other people annoyed? If so, is she aware? If no to all this, maybe ignorance is bliss? However, I always KNEW I was disliked and constantly criticized, and learning I was an Aspie was an actual relief. You have a difficult decision.