Abstract

A person's cognitive environment--made up of their thoughts, experiences, and tendencies--can affect how they empathize with others. Those with significantly different cognitive environments, such as autistic and neurotypical individuals, may have a difficult time empathizing with one another. This study aimed to facilitate empathy between the two groups by aligning their cognitive environments through discussion about visual art. Five autistic neurotypical dyads completed three discussion sessions where they observed and journaled about a piece of art, discussed their thoughts with each other, and filled out a questionnaire about their experience. All participants also completed a post-study interview. Data from questionnaires, journals, and interviews were analyzed using interpretative phenomenological analysis, while the conversations were analyzed using thematic analysis. Three key themes emerged relating to the perception and processing of autistic and neurotypical individuals, the use of art as a starting point for building connection, and conditions that support empathic connection. Autistic participants tended to focus on the art's technical/concrete visual elements and formed strong opinions quickly. Neurotypical participants focused on the big picture, emotion, and interpersonal dynamics of the art, and more carefully/hesitantly formed opinions. Both groups found the art useful in initiating conversation and helping them see each other's perspective. Participants emphasized other key factors that supported connection, including motivation/effort, perspective-taking, time, authenticity and shared experiences, and clear, casual conversation. Similarities and differences between the two groups' perception and processing traits may have contributed to their ability to understand the other's perspective. Discussion of visual art, as well as the other conditions for connection mentioned, helped align the cognitive environments of the participants and created great potential for empathic connection. This method would be beneficial for use personally or clinically, as a way to build greater empathy and connection between autistic and neurotypical individuals.

Degree

College and Department

David O. McKay School of Education; Communication Disorders

Rights

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