Facial Expressions

Facial expressions are the motions and/or positions of the muscles beneath the skin on an individual’s face. They are reported to be critical in conveying the emotional state that an individual is experiencing to the viewer/observer. They are a form of non-verbal communication.

Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder vary in their ability to interpret and in the provision of facial expressions. Interpreting facial expressions is a pivotal part of being able to engage in a conversation or interaction with another human being. The displaying of facial expressions is said to allow the other person in the interaction to know how you are feeling.

This can be a manual (learnt over time) or intrinsic process.

• Facial expressions are another manualised process that in combination with having to navigate everything else in this world increase the overwhelm experienced.
• It was previously thought that you look at the person’s eyes and mouth to interpret. There is increased knowledge around the need to also read body language, consider Theory of Mind, and listen to and process the verbal information being delivered, all at once, essentially in a split second.
• An individual with Autism Spectrum Disorder can feel/sense the energy of the person they are interacting with.
• Being true and authentic when interacting with an individual on the spectrum.

Length: 5:30