Shall I tell

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Justine
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Joined: 1/9/2010

I noticed a colleague of mine fitting the aspi profile; however, I wonder if she is aware of this. Should I tell her? It is tempting ... but is it wise?

To me it is pretty clear, the staring eyes, the voice, her insterests and cognitive abilities, her clothing and looks; she ticks many boxes.

Currently she is in a job that requires desk work mainly, but she will move to a job where she will have much more on-site contact with corporate customers. In such a job it helps being aware. Should I tell, or leave it to her to dicover?

Corina
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Joined: 12/7/2009

This is always tricky, when you suspect that someone is on the spectrum, since a lot of people consider this kind of thing personal. If not done right, some people can take it the wrong way, even if you have the best of intentions.

To me, it comes down to two things: how will she react, and whether or not she already knows. 

If you think you can do it, try to subtly bring up the subject about autism/asperger's and try to gauge her reaction and knowledge about it. If she seems to be fairly knowledgeable (assuming she's willing to talk about it), then there is a possibility that she already knows.  If not, carefully suggest that maybe she look into it, since she does show many of the signs.

If you have a good relationship with her, then I'd suggest just being upfront and saying you think she has it, and if she's interested, providing her with information. 

It kinda depends on how you think she'll react.  If you bring it up nicely, I think it'll be okay, but also be open to the possibility that she might already know.

~ Corina

Your friendly Director of Networking and Forum Moderator

“Be the change you want to see in the world.” ~Mahatma Gandhi

Justine
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Joined: 1/9/2010

Good suggestion, just discussing the topic and see if she is knowledgeable. Will take it from there, probably the best thing is to start with observable behaviors.