A compassionate exploration of social understanding in autism, offering insight into how autistic people experience and interpret social situations in ways that differ from non-autistic norms.
In Episode 9 of The William Gomes Podcast, “Social Understanding in Autism – A Different Way of Seeing People,”William Gomes examines how differences in social processing are often misunderstood when viewed through deficit-based frameworks. Rather than reflecting a lack of social interest or empathy, the episode explains how autistic people may process social cues, emotions, and intentions through distinct cognitive and sensory pathways.
Rethinking Social Difference
The discussion explores key themes including empathy, prediction, communication styles, and masking. Gomes explains how misunderstandings frequently arise when autistic and non-autistic people interpret social signals differently, and why these challenges are relational rather than individual.
By reframing social difficulty in this way, the episode encourages a more balanced and respectful understanding of autistic social experience.
Communication, Clarity, and Masking
A central focus of the episode is the diversity of autistic communication. Gomes highlights how many autistic people value clarity, directness, and authenticity, and how social difficulty often emerges when expectations rely on unspoken rules or rapid interpretation of subtle cues.
The episode also discusses masking as a strategy some autistic people use to navigate social environments, often at significant emotional and psychological cost.
Towards Mutual Understanding
Warm and thoughtful in tone, the episode is intended for parents, educators, and professionals who wish to move beyond simplistic assumptions about autism and social behaviour. By emphasising clarity, respect, and mutual understanding, the episode supports a more inclusive approach to social connection.
Part of a Wider Autism Series
As part of the wider autism series on The William Gomes Podcast, Episode 9 contributes to ongoing conversations about neurodiversity, communication, and the importance of seeing social difference as variation rather than deficit.
Listen to Episode 9
Apple Podcasts
https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-william-gomes-podcast/id1582677051?i=1000742288810
Spotify
https://open.spotify.com/episode/0lM6gSGY0NreUQ8kpnDBmC?si=6a8120a1cceb4446
YouTube
https://youtu.be/bJnwro39zt8?si=UUxWVPCk8cBIK_X-
The William Gomes Podcast is an independent podcast series focused on autism, child development, and neurodiversity, offering evidence-informed and accessible discussions designed to support understanding across families, education, and professional practice.
