A groundbreaking study has shed new light on the profound challenges faced by autistic adults as they navigate the often-overwhelming maze of non-verbal social cues, calling attention to a daily reality that remains poorly understood by much of society. The research, published in PLOS ONE and conducted by a neurodiverse team from the University of Portsmouth and international collaborators, found that decoding facial expressions, gestures, tone of voice, and eye contact can feel like “just too much going on” for many adults on the autism spectrum, leading to misunderstandings, social anxiety, and a reduced quality of life (medicalxpress.com).
The findings are a wake-up call for Thai families, educators, healthcare professionals, and the broader community, highlighting the genuine effort involved in these everyday interactions. In a society that prizes harmony and subtlety—where much is communicated nonverbally through gesture and tone—understanding the perspective of autistic individuals is vital for reducing stigma and fostering genuine inclusion in Thai workplaces, classrooms, and social settings.
The study systematically reviewed 362 first-hand accounts shared by autistic adults on the online forum WrongPlanet.net, focusing on 26 discussion threads dedicated to non-verbal communication (NVC). Unlike previous research that often relies on clinical observation, this study amplifies the authentic voices of autistic adults themselves. Many described the mental exhaustion involved in monitoring eye contact, interpreting gestures, and ensuring their own body language matches expectations—even as they try to keep up with spoken words. One participant likened the experience to “decoding a complex, unwritten language in real time,” while another voiced a wish that people would “just say what they have to say, and not leave so much unspoken.”
Notably, the Double Empathy Problem—whereby non-autistic and autistic people mutually misunderstand each other—was a recurring theme. This bi-directional gap in understanding can lead to lasting consequences, from being unfairly judged or excluded, to reluctance in seeking help in healthcare settings or participating in group activities. In Thailand, where group conformity and non-confrontational communication styles are deeply embedded in both educational and corporate culture, this disconnect can be particularly challenging for autistic adults.
Expert voices were integral to the research. A Ph.D. researcher from the University of Portsmouth’s School of Psychology, Sport and Health Sciences, who is autistic, emphasized how non-verbal communication “can feel like decoding a complex, unwritten language in real time.” Another co-author, also from the University of Portsmouth, stressed that the study challenges the prevailing idea that communication difficulties are solely an autistic issue. “The Double Empathy Problem shows us that misunderstandings happen in both directions—non-autistic people also struggle to understand autistic communication styles,” they wrote. Researchers from Rowan University and Drexel University, both bringing personal experience with autism and long-standing expertise, collaborated through the Academic Autism Spectrum Partnership in Research and Education (AASPIRE), exemplifying the value of inclusive, community-engaged research.
The participants’ stories reveal varied coping strategies—some attempt to mimic neurotypical behavior by studying body language, taking acting lessons, or emulating television characters. Others find freedom in written communication, where the pressure to “perform” drops away. For many, embracing their authentic selves, rather than struggling to “pass” as neurotypical, is both a necessity and a source of resilience. This message resonates strongly in Thailand, where the pressure to conform—whether by adhering to conventional wai greetings or by reading subtle cues in hierarchical workplace interactions—can make social navigation doubly difficult for those with autism.
Social misunderstandings are not merely theoretical; they have tangible implications, especially in settings like healthcare, job interviews, schools, and even romantic relationships. Autistic adults reported being misread as aloof, untrustworthy, or inattentive simply because their non-verbal signals diverged from societal expectations. In Thailand, misunderstandings in face-to-face communication might prevent an autistic person from accessing much-needed support, or cause familial tension in contexts where filial piety and indirect communication predominate. These findings call for greater awareness among Thai healthcare workers, educators, and employers—a call echoed by Thailand’s own advocacy organizations working to destigmatize neurodiversity (autismlight.com).
The research offers practical recommendations: check with individuals how they prefer to communicate, allow extra time for responses, avoid jumping to conclusions based solely on body language, and remain open to written or direct verbal communication. These strategies are easily translatable to the Thai context, where technology-enabled written communication—such as through the Line messaging app or email—can provide a more comfortable channel for those who find face-to-face interactions overwhelming. Teachers, in particular, can help by providing clear, direct instructions and reducing reliance on implicit cues.
The study’s Thai relevance is clear. Although research has historically focused on child autism, a recent increase in adult autism diagnoses in Thailand (Bangkok Post) highlights the need to address the social and emotional needs of this group across the lifespan. Traditional Thai values, such as kreng jai (the desire not to cause discomfort or impose on others), can sometimes make direct requests or disclosures difficult for anyone, but especially challenging for autistic adults who may need explicit support or accommodations. With an estimated 1 in 100 people in Thailand experiencing autism spectrum disorder (World Health Organization), the call for more inclusive environments is timely.
Moreover, Thailand’s movement towards greater workplace and educational inclusion, as evidenced by recent Ministry of Labour initiatives encouraging the employment of people with disabilities—including neurodiverse individuals—makes practical guidance from studies like this all the more crucial (ILO Thailand).
The Bangkok Post previously reported on efforts by Thai universities and NGOs to develop “friendly spaces” for students with autism, citing the need for understanding both verbal and non-verbal learning styles (Bangkok Post). This latest research suggests that more Thai educators and employers should begin by asking, not assuming, how best to support autistic colleagues and students. As one of the international researchers noted, “By making space for different communication styles, we can reduce miscommunication, support mental health, and build stronger, more respectful connections for everyone.”
Looking forward, the study points to growing momentum in embracing diversity in communication styles. In the context of an increasingly digital society—where remote work, e-learning, and online healthcare have become widespread since the COVID-19 pandemic—written and video communication open up new possibilities for more inclusive interaction. For Thai institutions, this is an opportunity to rethink rigid conventions that may unwittingly exclude or alienate neurodiverse populations.
Building awareness is only the first step. The study urges all stakeholders—from families and doctors to employers and policymakers—to actively create environments where different forms of expression are accepted and understood. For Thai readers, practical steps include offering more flexible communication channels, explicitly inviting feedback, and modeling patience during conversations. Exploring resources from Thai advocacy groups, such as the Autism Parents Association of Thailand or local educational consultants, can provide tailored advice for families and institutions alike.
Ultimately, supporting autistic adults to thrive in Thai society means recognizing the richness they bring—not despite, but because of—their unique communication style. By allowing space for directness, pausing for careful responses, and setting aside assumptions rooted in non-verbal norms, Thais can help foster a more diverse, resilient, and equitable society.
For further reading, the original research can be accessed in PLOS ONE (PLOS ONE), and additional resources on autism inclusion and advocacy are available via the World Health Organization (WHO ASD Fact Sheet), the Academic Autism Spectrum Partnership in Research and Education (AASPIRE), and local Thai support networks (Autism Thailand). Families and professionals are encouraged to seek training, consult official guidelines, and participate in awareness events during Thailand’s National Autism Awareness Month each April.