The Intersection of Being Autistic & Hard of Hearing
From the point of view our very own Dr. Jessica Hogan!
The Intersection of Autistic and Hard of Hearing Identities
Living at the intersection of being autistic and hard of hearing is a multifaceted experience that encompasses a wide range of strengths and challenges. Autistic individuals often navigate a world that may not fully understand or accommodate their unique ways of processing information and engaging with others. Simultaneously, those who are hard of hearing grapple with communication barriers and the need for accommodations to access auditory information.
One of the significant aspects of this intersection is the intricate dance between sensory sensitivities. Autistic traits, such as sensitivity to stimuli and differences in social communication, can intertwine with the communication hurdles faced by those who are hard of hearing. It’s a delicate balance that shapes how individuals perceive and interact with the world around them.
IRL: In Real Life
Growing up with deafness, I navigated the world in a way that often masked my autistic traits, leading to a delayed diagnosis and a struggle to identify with autism. For years, I grappled with the question: Could I be autistic, or was my social awkwardness simply a byproduct of my inability to hear? The anxiety of entering social situations loomed over me, knowing that I would inevitably miss crucial cues and responses due to my hearing impairment. I braced myself for the inevitable embarrassment of smiling and nodding at inappropriate moments, my attempts at social interaction falling flat.
Recently, I attended a concert with a friend, and the challenge of understanding her verbal communication amidst the loud music pushed her to use texting as our primary mode of conversation throughout the event. This unconventional method of communication turned out to be a revelation, offering me a sense of validation and connection that I hadn't experienced before. It was a stark reminder of the barriers I often faced in traditional social settings, but also a poignant affirmation of the diverse ways in which people can connect and understand each other.
Masking Autistic Traits in the Hard of Hearing Experience
Being hard of hearing can act as a mask for certain autistic traits, leading to challenges in recognizing and diagnosing autism. The communication difficulties inherent in hearing impairment may overshadow the subtle social and behavioral differences associated with autism.
For example, an individual who is hard of hearing might develop coping mechanisms to navigate social situations, such as mimicking social behaviors they observe. This adaptive behavior can make it challenging for others, including healthcare professionals and educators, to identify underlying autistic traits. As a result, autism diagnoses may be delayed, impacting access to appropriate support and accommodations.
A True Journey…
Reflecting on these experiences, I realized the profound impact that both my deafness and autism had on my social interactions. While my deafness presented its own set of challenges, it also inadvertently masked certain autistic traits, complicating my journey towards self-identification and acceptance. However, moments like the concert served as powerful reminders that communication isn't confined to verbal exchanges alone, and that true connection can transcend barriers of language and sensory perception.
If you think you are Autistic, we would love to speak to you about Autism Evaluations. Contact us today.
