Unmasking Autism: Discovering the New Faces of Neurodiversity

by Devon Price

I find it easy to correct a coworker if they make a factual statement that’s wrong, but when I was trapped in an abusive relationship with a person I deeply loved, contradicting him terrified me. Just the idea of telling him that he’d treated me unfairly made me want to sputter and flee the room. Years later, I still have trouble criticizing people, including those who make me feel safe and accepted. My brain knows better, but my body expects a rage outburst all the same. Autistic people are at an increased risk of domestic abuse, in part because we tend to be a bit gullible or overly trusting, and are quick to alter ourselves to placate others.[58] When you’re trapped under the mask, all love feels conditional. It’s hard to know which needs are acceptable to voice. It’s also easy for us to feel responsible for serving as an intermediary or peacekeeper when any tension arises between other people, because for us, conflict can be very dangerous.

WELL OK THEN