One-Sided Social Engagements
It can seem relatively difficult to conclude a conversation with someone suffering from Asperger’s since they have trouble with detecting social cues, such as being told “it’s getting quite late” when the other individual is ready to stop speaking. They will seemingly talk at length about themselves to other people, and they generally will not provide feedback or ask questions after listening to someone else speak. It’s not all that uncommon either for children and adolescents suffering from Asperger’s to talk exclusively about a single topic for weeks, or even months, at a time without any apparent consideration for what others would like to discuss.
Socially Unaware Behavior
Simply put, social cues are extremely difficult to grasp for those living with Asperger syndrome. Particularly emotional situations might elicit no reaction from someone with Asperger’s, and jokes might fall flat for them as well. It’s common for people with this disorder to say things that are socially inappropriate in relation to the situation. For example, a person with Asperger syndrome might laugh or speak loudly during a funeral. If other people indicate that they are uninterested or uncomfortable with the person’s behavior, he/she might not understand these cues or pick up on them at all. It’s important to always keep in mind that those suffering from Asperger’s are not intentionally rude or insensitive.