The Double Empathy Problem
Research by Damian Milton (2012) introduced the concept of the Double Empathy Problem. This theory suggests that communication difficulties between autistic and non-autistic people do not result from a lack of social understanding on behalf of the autistic person. Instead, misunderstandings occur in both directions because people experience and interpret the world differently.
For example, a child may communicate distress through behaviour, silence or withdrawal, while adults may expect verbal explanations. When the two communication styles do not match, misunderstandings can occur.
Understanding the Double Empathy Problem encourages a shift in thinking:
❌ Old thinking
“Why doesn’t this child communicate in a way that I can understand?”
✅ New thinking
“How can we meet each other halfway so we can understand one another better?”
This approach encourages curiosity, patience and flexibility in communication.
