Social Clutter
Socialization challenges arise because of being unfamiliar with the expectations in the natural environment. Family Learning for Autism refers to this as Social Clutter.
Learn strategies to increase awareness of social clutter.
Say What?
The following conversation is between a mom and her 11-year-old son.
Boy: Mom, I really want to stay up late tonight to use the telescope.
Mom: I’m at work tonight so I won’t be here to help you. You will have to ask Dad if that is ok. When your dad gets home from work, just butter him up and he might agree.
Boy: You want me to spread butter on Dad? Like with a knife?
Mom: Lol, no, no. What I mean is: When he gets home from work, behave in a way that puts dad in a good mood. Like: say nice things to him. Do him a favour. That sort of thing.
Boy: So, if I am nice to him, he will let me stay up late and he can help me with the telescope?
Mom: You still must ask him if he has time to help you with the telescope but by saying nice things first, you are helping him feel important. If he feels important, he is more likely to agree.
Boy: Oh, Ok Mom. Thanks. But what do I do with the butter?
The above example highlights the importance of careful word selection. At Family Learning for Autism you will learn about your families’ particular social clutter and help you remove social clutter from your natural environment.
Take Charge of your Social Clutter!
Take Charge of your Mental Health, Social Anxiety, and Mood Swings, by reducing your reactions to Emotional Bossiness.
Learn how to separate logical, and socially appropriate choices, from ‘in the moment’ choices driven by social anxiety responses and emotional bossiness.
Understanding your natural environment is a complex topic that involves specific learning, often ‘in the moment’, for those who struggle with social anxiety and mood swings.
Family Learning for Autism accesses your family’s natural environment, in relation to social clutter, and initiates Thinking about your Learning to rewrite your social story.
