Clearer Thinking with Spencer Greenberg A conversation with an autistic person (with Megan Neff)
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Aug 6, 2025 
In a thought-provoking conversation with Megan Neff, a clinical psychologist and founder of Neurodivergent Insights, they delve into the nuances of autism. Neff shares insights from her journey of self-discovery and discusses empathy in autism, challenging the misconception that autistic individuals lack emotional understanding. The duo explores the complexities of special interests, social dynamics, and the significance of stimming. They also address the intersection of autism with gender and ADHD, and highlight the need for a more inclusive understanding of neurodiversity.
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The Role of Stimming
- Stimming includes repetitive movements and sensory behaviors that can be soothing or an anxiety release.
- It helps create predictable sensory feedback and can vary with emotional states like excitement or fear.
Double Empathy Problem Explained
- Communication breaks down more between autistic and non-autistic people than within autistic or non-autistic groups.
- This supports the double empathy problem: difficulty is mutual in cross-neurotype interactions.
Limitations of DSM Criteria
- The DSM focuses on observable behaviors but misses autistic people's internal experiences.
- Understanding discomfort and internal motivations behind behaviors like eye contact matters for accurate diagnosis.
