I don’t even know where to start.
I have known them for over 10 years, it always been very clear to me they are neurodivergent, I’ve known that from day one.
A few months ago they were given a formal diagnosis of autism. I can completely see it, I can completely understand the diagnosis, and I think it is in perfect alignment with many of this person’s characteristics.
I really do not know what the hell is going on in their mind, if the diagnosis has triggered some deep feelings or…
But the problem is this… Ever since they got the diagnosis, they have started to mimic the behaviors that are often seen in people with Down’s Syndrome. She has started to mimic the speech patterns, and tries to crunch her face and squint.
It’s just annoying as fuck. They are purposefully acting like somebody they are not. I am becoming absolutely exhausted with this behavior, especially because they have not changed as a person, they are the exact same person as prior to the diagnosis, they’ve just started acting like an idiot. (E: and I’m also getting SICK of her besmirching people with Downs by ACTING like she has the IQ of a cat)
I am at the point where I don’t want to be around them anymore, but before I limit my contact, what are some compassionate ways I can have a conversation with this person?
Gather the courage to tell them what you’re telling us in a polite way. In my mind, there’s no other way around it.
A good friend will confront their bullshit in a loving way.
Okay so how do you suggest I say it?
I don’t want to focus on how ridiculous her behavior is, that is going to make her defensive and double down.
I want to encourage her to discover and be who she is with out trying to fit inside some ridiculous imagined box that she has currently decided to shove herself into.
I really couldn’t tell you that. I don’t know you or her or the dynamics. I can only give you a high level opinion of what I think needs to be done, you’ll need to work out the rest.