In this episode of The Portal Podcast, Professor Sarah Lonbay and Dr Lesley Deacon speak with Professor Hanna Bertilsdotter Rosqvist, a Swedish sociologist and social work professor, activist, and member of the autistic community. Hanna shares her journey from queer studies and community activism into autism research, including her own “community assessment” and self-identification as autistic.

The discussion explores how lived experience challenges dominant, deficit-based narratives of autism, advocating for a reframing grounded in embodiment, sensory experience, and the development of new, more nuanced language. Key concepts such as the “double empathy problem” and “triple empathy problem” are explained through relatable metaphors. Hanna emphasises the intertwined nature of her activism and research, the importance of recognising neurodivergent professionals in social work, and the value of “translators” between neurotypical and neurodivergent communication styles.

The conversation also touches on neurodivergent sexuality, the need to move beyond neurotypical and heteronormative frameworks, and how insights from communities such as BDSM can broaden understanding of sensory pleasures and pacing in intimate relationships. Practical recommendations for social workers include recognising neurodivergent people as a language minority, allowing for processing time, and creating accessible spaces that work for the individual.

For more information about the episode, including a glossary of key terms and concepts, links to resoures mentioned in the conversation, and a transcript of the episode, please click here: https://wp.sunderland.ac.uk/portal-podcast/

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