Understanding Autistic Info-Dumping
- Dr. J.J. Tomash
- 3 hours ago
- 5 min read
Parenting is always seen as a beautiful experience, but is it the same for everyone? Everyone can have different experiences, and you can understand this better than others if you're a parent to a child with autism. If you're, you must be aware that several aspects of their life are different than others, and so is their way of expression.
Communication comes differently in autistic children, and these differences can show up as unique speech patterns, trouble understanding social cues, and difficulties participating in to and fro conversations.
Among these, we're talking about info-dumping, which is often seen in a child with autism. It refers to sharing excessive or large amounts of detailed information about any specific topic. To be honest, it is their way of communicating, and as a parent/guardian, it is normal to see you being inquisitive about it.
Fortunately, you have landed at the right place, as we're discussing this in our blog post.
At BehaviorSpan, we offer more than an Applied Behavior Analysis program. We aim to keep our readers informed about concerns related to parenting a child with autism.
Right now, we will learn what autistic info-dumping is, how it happens, its impact on relationships, and how you should respond. Read it till the end!
Understanding Info-Dumping
In general, info-dumping involves providing immense data in one go. While this term originated in 1978, it was adopted in the context of literature and autistic expression (i). It is also said to have a link with Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).
Talking of autistic info-dumping, you may find your child sharing detailed information for too long. It is their way of connecting and expressing their passion. However, it is often presumed that info-dumping is hyperactivity, but in reality, it is not. However, it can also be seen in individuals with ADHD.
Why Does Your Child Info-Dump?
If your child is seeking professional support, you may want to reach their behavioral analyst with several queries and concerns. Among these, it won't be uncommon to ask why your child does an info-dump.
In this section, let us shed light on this area:
For your child, info-dumping is a communication method. It helps them present their passions and form deep connections. You may find it more like a monologue, and they'll be so engrossed in sharing everything that they may not notice whether the listener has lost interest. You must also note that this can be a coping mechanism against certain feelings.
Besides, when the child experiences a buildup of thoughts, they may feel a desire to express them. For some individuals, it can be a mandate to present their thoughts. Collectively, it can be a way for them to connect with individuals who might share similar interests.
Sharing too much information at once can get overwhelming at one point. After all, a good conversation requires balance, and when someone monologues for so long, the other person can lose interest.
Rejection or negative feedback due to info-dumping can make them feel more misunderstood and socially isolated. The emotion of rejection can affect their social connections and self-esteem.
Info-dumping can result in miscommunication, as your child will be more focused on providing detailed information and may miss out on the emotional aspect or the necessary context of the message. This can make the entire interaction confusing.
Besides, if your child starts info-dumping in a social situation, it can hinder the natural conversation flow. They might dominate the entire conversation without realizing how others can be impacted by this. This can make the situation awkward.
How Can You Help?
From showing genuine interest to establishing gentle boundaries, there could be different ways to respond to your child's info-dumping. Let's learn about them in detail here:
Enroll Your Child in ABA Therapy
If you haven't enrolled your child in an ABA therapy center as yet, consider this the sign to do that. Applied Behavior Analysis programs can aid your child with alternative communication styles and understanding social cues with relevant strategies. (ii)
Promoting Receptive Communication
Receptive communication can help you promote balanced and good communication. Your role here is to be the ear and show genuine interest in conversation. It's important to let your child know they can share whatever they want with you. You must be patient with your child.
Establishing Kind Boundaries
If info-dumping overwhelms you, establish clear, respectful, and kind boundaries. After all, as a parent or guardian, it is important to remind your child that it's time to move to another topic. The best part is that you can do this in the most gentle way possible. For example, tell them, let us focus on this task right now, and talk about it later.
Educating Yourself
If you are a parent to an autistic child who's undergoing therapies like Applied Behavior Analysis programs, parent training would be a part of your schedule. Such events are an ideal opportunity to learn about the communication styles of your child, like info-dumping. It is always advisable to involve your child's professionals for a better understanding.
Promoting Empathy
You must help your family members understand and practice empathy. Rather than seeing info-dumping as wrong, you can tell them it's your child's way of presenting themselves. This can help them understand your child's experiences and their behavior.
Encourage Group Settings
You must encourage everyone to participate in the conversation to avoid your child's dominance in group settings. You can prompt others to continue the conversation and ask open-ended questions. You can use structured activities and conversations with clear topics and roles divided among each individual.
Connect Them With Their Interest
Imagine how great it would be for your child to find someone who shares the same interests and passions as them. You can find and enroll them in activities to connect them with like-minded people. This can provide them with an outlet to share all their passion and share their info.
Conclusion
Info-dumping can be a common way for your child to share their thoughts, interests, and passions. However, as we read in this blog, info-dumping can strain social settings and overwhelm the listener, eventually calling for a balance.
Fortunately, you can help your little one, and that's what this blog has walked you through. As a parent or guardian, you can promote balanced and good communication; being receptive is a great way to do so. You must also establish kind boundaries to remind them about moving to another topic, as they may miss the social cues. Educate yourself about your child's situation and tell other families too. Promote group settings and encourage everyone to participate in the conversation. If your child is passionate about something, you can always connect them with other like-minded people.
Above all, you must enroll them in the Applied Behavior Analysis programs to equip them with the ideal communication methods and social skills. Talking of it, we at BehaviorSpan offer ABA therapy in Denver. From early intervention to center-based learning, we plan every step of your child's development journey. We have a team of experienced Board Certified Behavior Analysts and Registered Behavioral Technicians to provide the ultimate care to your child.
Connect with us today, and prepare your child for a promising future tomorrow.
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