In the second part of the three-part interview, psychologist Sonja Franziska Schröter explains how teachers, parents and professionals can better support autistic people. She provides concrete recommendations for school life and explains why understanding autistic people’s inner world is crucial.
What advice would you give to teachers, parents, and psychologists when working with autistic learners?
All individuals need understanding and genuine interest in their inner world.
I encourage professionals and parents to try to grasp the autistic person’s perspective and understand what their inner world feels like. Every behavior has a purpose. People on the autism spectrum often mask their true selves because, without this adaptation, they frequently face or fear to face rejection and misunderstanding.
With trusted individuals, they can express themselves authentically. Their “unique” traits are accepted, and they are given space to thrive. Ideally, parents can provide this safe, nurturing environment.
In schools, it’s important to recognize that constant adaptation requires tremendous energy. Routine and structured plans can help provide orientation. To support autistic learners effectively:
- Honor commitments and agreements;
- Implement plans as outlined;
- Build recovery phases into the schedule;
- Avoid spontaneous changes whenever possible.
To professionals, my advice is to educate yourselves about autism and engage in open dialogue with the individual. Every child deserves the opportunity to grow without being pressured to conform unnaturally.
Key messages I aim to share with everyone:
- “Never forget that you are valuable just as you are, even if the world around you makes it feel difficult.”
- “We are all inherently valuable simply because we exist.”
How is an autism diagnosis made, and what are the key indicators? How does it relate to gaining recognition as a disabled worker?
Firstly, I prefer to speak of “individuals with disabilities” rather than “disabled individuals.”
“Neurodivergent” individuals often possess “unique” abilities that can be highly beneficial in the workplace. Identifying the skills required and designing a work environment that supports people on the autism spectrum can enable them to realize their full potential. Organizations that employ these individuals frequently gain from their “exceptional” competencies.
As a psychologist, I do not conduct diagnostic evaluations myself. In Luxembourg, for a professional diagnosis, you can contact Ms. Rizzi (psychologie-rizzi.com) or other specialized organizations.
In the final part of this interview, Sonja Franziska Schröter discusses diagnosis options in Luxembourg and explains how “neurodivergent” people can best utilize their “special” abilities in professional life.