06/13/2023
This is a great example (to be clear: not a complete representation of all autistics, this is literally just one autistic’s experience) of how tone is perceived differently among neurodivergent folks.
Autistic tone of voice is often misinterpreted, and even weaponized. If you're not autistic, try not to make assumptions about intent or mood based on an autistic person's tone of voice. From Autistic Science Person:
Original Twitter thread: https://twitter.com/AutSciPerson/status/1399895950622171145?s=20
[image: Screenshot of a tweet from AutisticSciPerson.
Tweeted text reads, "Here's my version of what my tone of voice is perceived as, as an autistic person"
Below is a graphic as follows:
An x and y-axis with four quadrants, with a box of text for each quadrant. Title - Neurotypical Perception of Autistic Tone of Voice. Y-axis goes from Very low stress to very high stress, bottom to top. X-axis goes from low energy to high energy, left to right.
Very high stress and low energy: Neurotypicals assume you are fine or even calm
Your words are ignored
Too monotone
Too quiet
Making grunting/stressful noises
When help is needed the most but NTs will not understand you.
Very high stress and high energy: Neurotypicals will be upset with you no matter what you say, even if it’s a compliment
Too loud
Too abrasive
Too angry
When help is needed the most but NTs will not understand you.
Low energy/very low stress: Mostly Acceptable to Neurotypicals
Talking Slower (i.e. Neurotypical speed)
A bit too monotone
Slightly too quiet
High energy very low stress - Mostly Acceptable to Neurotypicals
Talking too fast
Perceived as interrupting
Slightly too loud.}
