Exploring common dating dos and don'ts.
Noticing that dating norms can be questioned and adapted.
Thinking about how to describe yourself and your interests on a dating profile.
Recognising that everyone has their own preferences and dealbreakers.
Considering how practice and support can help when starting to date.
(Adult Content) In this clip from Love on the Spectrum, a young autistic man talks about getting ready to start dating. He talks through dating dos and don'ts with someone supporting him, like asking open questions. He questions some dating norms, like offering to pour someone a drink. They set up an online dating profile together, choosing photos and writing about his interests. He starts swiping and talks about the age range he is open to.
The questions within this guide are designed to open dialogue and facilitate discussion around the relevant topics. It is up to the user to adapt as needed to best suit the person they are supporting. A neuroaffirming approach was central to the design of these resources and remains essential to their application. This means recognising and respecting the diverse ways people think, communicate, and experience the world, ensuring all conversations are led with curiosity, respect, and without judgement. These resources are a starting point. Trust your knowledge of the person you are supporting to shape the conversation from there.
For access to playback speed, transcripts or closed captions, please click the video title in the top left of the player to access the Youtube source where these controls are provisioned.
We are always looking to grow and improve this resource and would love to hear from you. Whether you have a suggestion for a clip or topic, a question about your subscription, or feedback to share, please do not hesitate to reach out.
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