Jeff Matlow

“Needing the world to be ‘on their terms’ is a common comment made by those living with and supporting individuals with autism.”
― Sarah Hendrickx, Women and Girls with Autism Spectrum Disorder: Understanding Life Experiences from Early Childhood to Old Age

“She finds sharing very difficult and wants everything to be done on her terms […] ‘Precious’ toys have to be hidden away before other children come to play. She would never think to offer sweets to others and refuses to do so when prompted. (Woman with autism)”
― Sarah Hendrickx, Women and Girls with Autism Spectrum Disorder: Understanding Life Experiences from Early Childhood to Old Age

“Admitting vulnerability and asking for concessions or help is hard after a lifetime of masking.”
― Sarah Hendrickx, Women and Girls with Autism Spectrum Disorder: Understanding Life Experiences from Early Childhood to Old Age

“learned that it was simply difficult for me to communicate in the way that makes people comfortable forming bonds of friendship. Before the diagnosis, when I ‘withdrew’ it had always been attributed to me being ‘moody’ or ‘sulky’, when actually, inside, I often felt calm and happy and was surprised when people were angry.”
― Sarah Hendrickx, Women and Girls with Autism Spectrum Disorder: Understanding Life Experiences from Early Childhood to Old Age