In the first part of a three-part interview, psychologist Sonja Franziska Schröter discusses challenges faced by late-diagnosed autistic individuals and effective coping strategies. She explains how self-rejection develops and how affected individuals can better manage stress and masking.
What challenges and wishes do your autistic clients share with you? What are common concerns?
Among adults who receive a late diagnosis, I often observe a strong sense of self-rejection. This typically stems from an upbringing in which their environment repeatedly conveyed that they were “different” and didn’t belong.
Their natural behaviors are frequently disregarded, and attempts to adapt often fail—primarily because, prior to their diagnosis, they lacked an understanding of their true needs and how to create an environment conducive to their well-being.
Over time, many develop strategies to blend in, but these often result in chronic stress. For this reason, our therapeutic work focuses heavily on psychoeducation and fostering self-acceptance.
What strategies help them? What messages do you often share with your autistic clients?
In our sessions, we examine specific stress-inducing situations and evaluate the effectiveness of the coping strategies they’ve employed.
Many individuals on the autism spectrum need support in cultivating self-awareness and recognizing when they are masking—concealing their authentic behaviors to meet societal expectations.
It’s crucial to employ masking strategies in a way that doesn’t compromise one’s sense of self or lead to constant, overwhelming stress.
Stress is a universal part of life, but it’s essential to incorporate regular recovery periods into daily routines. Because the brains of people on the autism spectrum often operate differently, many report an ongoing flood of uncontrollable thoughts and internal processes, which can alter their perception of the external world.
The goal is to use masking judiciously and develop personalized strategies that allow for regular recovery and balance.
In the second part of this interview, Sonja Franziska Schröter shares valuable recommendations for teachers, parents and professionals on supporting autistic people.