TED Radio Hour So Awkward: How to embrace the embarrassing
25 snips
Apr 19, 2024 
Social scientist, cartoonist, journalist, and counselor discuss embracing awkwardness. Topics include middle school reflections, navigating social awkwardness, growth, creativity, connection, candid sex education, and embracing authenticity.
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Ty's Awkward Wrestling Story
- Ty Tashiro and friends tried to revive playground wrestling to be cool in middle school.
- Their play ended with Ty hitting his head and feeling deeply socially awkward around peers.
Traits Defining Awkward People
- Awkward people differ in social perception and communication compared to non-awkward people.
- They show social skill deficits, communication troubles, and obsessive interests that set them apart.
Awkwardness and Autism Spectrum Link
- Social awkwardness and autism exist on a continuum without a sharp diagnostic cutoff.
- People can have strong social skill difficulties without qualifying for autism spectrum diagnosis but still need support.