From finding a voice to being understood: exploring the double empathy problem

This presentation begins with an overview of the double empathy problem theory as devised by the author of this presentation. Issues such as empathy and reciprocity will be explored through the use of examples and interactive activities. This will be followed by examining how autistic voices are presented and perceived within the field of autism studies, and how issues relating to the double empathy problem can act as a barrier to autistic voices being ‘found’, or at least understood on their own terms. This discussion then lays a foundation for an exploration of what counts as, as well as how one acquires, various forms of ‘expertise’, with the view of exploring the perennial topic of ‘who should speak for autistic people?’.