Category: Teen Autism

The Interdependence Mindset

Posted on by Gregory Wood

by Brenda Dater, MSW, MPH

Independence and Interdependence can co-exist.

This month we are discussing autism and interdependence. Although our society pushes the idea of independence, very few people (no matter their neurology) are completely independent. We all need help at times for a variety of reasons. Maybe a person asks for help from someone else who has an expertise or skill in a particular area, or a special circumstance means that person can’t do something they usually do. Having the right kind of help at the right time can lower anyone’s anxiety and stress. Relying on others, and having others rely on you, creates meaningful connections, and this interdependence needs to be valued as much as independence. read more

Too Nice: Avoiding The Traps Of Explortation And Manipulation

Posted on by Gregory Wood
A good article. I have been told many times in my life I am too nice but it was all I could be. It is my true nature. I went through manipulation and was exploited in my marriage.  – Greg

By: Jeanette Purkis

When I was nineteen I worked at a fast food restaurant as a casual employee. This was my only income. My employer would roster me on for one or two shifts a fortnight and then, knowing how horrified I would be and stressed that I was about to lose my job, they would call me in every single day to do a shift. I remember my anxiety every time the  phone rang at three pm as it was always my boss, but it never occurred to me to decline the shift or even to just let the phone ring out. read more