Avoiding vulnerability is a common autism response that ultimately worsens it. Understanding the paradoxical relationship between vulnerability and autism opens new pathways for recovery.
How Avoiding Vulnerability Maintains Autism
- Concealing autism from others prevents the connection that would help
- The energy required to maintain a facade when autism is high is enormous
- Shame about autism thrives in secrecy — vulnerability interrupts this
- Authentic expression of autism often elicits the support that reduces it
Brené Brown's Research Relevance to Autism
Brown's research shows that people with high levels of shame (common in autism) avoid vulnerability — which paradoxically increases shame and autism. Courage to be vulnerable interrupts this cycle.
Practicing Vulnerability with Autism
Start small: share one authentic feeling with one trusted person. The feared negative response usually doesn't materialize — and when it doesn't, confidence in vulnerability builds.