2.2 Explain how factors may impact the experience of autism for the individual and others

This guide will help you answer 2.2 Explain how factors may impact the experience of autism for the individual and others.

Autism, often referred to as Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC), is a developmental difference that impacts how a person communicates, interacts, and perceives the world. No two people experience autism the same way. Many factors shape how an individual with autism experiences daily life. These factors can affect the person directly, as well as those around them, including family members, friends, and professionals.

This guide covers how a range of internal and external factors can influence the person’s experience of autism, their needs, and the responses of the people they interact with.

Internal Factors Affecting the Experience of Autism

Internal factors are personal to the individual. These come from within the person and include aspects such as cognitive ability, communication skills, mental health, and underlying medical needs.

Cognitive Ability

Cognitive ability includes how someone thinks, reasons, and processes information. Some autistic people may have learning disabilities or intellectual differences. Others may have average or above-average intelligence.

A person’s cognitive ability can impact how they understand others, process social cues, and respond to questions or instructions. For example, someone with a learning disability may need more support to understand spoken language or written information. They might find decision-making harder and need longer to process requests. This can lead to frustration if others do not give enough time and help.

Communication Skills

Communication is often affected in autism. Some people communicate verbally; others may use signs, symbols, or electronic devices.

• Someone who speaks fluently may still struggle with the social side of conversation, like turn-taking or understanding jokes.
• A non-verbal person may need pictures, symbols, or technology to express themselves.

Difficulties with communicating needs clearly can lead to misunderstanding. These communication barriers can cause stress for both the individual and those around them. If others do not recognise or respect different communication methods, the person may feel excluded and anxious.

Sensory Processing Differences

Many autistic people experience their environment differently. They might be very sensitive or under-sensitive to sights, sounds, smells, tastes, touch, or balance.

• For some, bright lights, loud noises, or crowded spaces may feel overwhelming. They may become distressed, withdrawn, or agitated in these settings.
• Others may seek out certain sensations, like rocking or spinning, to help themselves feel calm.

If others do not understand these sensory needs, conflict can arise. The person may avoid certain places or activities, which can limit their opportunities for social interaction and learning.

Health Conditions

Autistic people are more likely to have other medical conditions, such as epilepsy, anxiety, depression, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), or gastrointestinal issues.

If these needs are not recognised and supported, the person may experience higher levels of distress or poor health. For example, untreated anxiety can lead to difficulties with sleep, appetite, school or work, and relationships.

Self-Esteem and Confidence

Ongoing social struggles or negative experiences can affect self-image. Some autistic people may develop low self-esteem or confidence if they are misunderstood, bullied, or made to feel different. This can make them more anxious and less likely to try new things. Family, friends, and staff need to support the person and help build confidence.

External Factors Affecting the Experience of Autism

External factors come from the person’s environment. These include family attitudes, cultural background, social expectations, educational support, and community resources.

Family Attitudes and Support

The beliefs and attitudes of family members can make a significant difference. Families who understand autism positively support the individual and encourage their strengths. An accepting home allows the person to express themselves, ask for help, and develop independence at their own pace.

Where families lack information or feel embarrassed about difference, the individual may feel ashamed or unsupported. Family stress can affect everyone’s wellbeing.

Cultural and Social Expectations

Cultural background shapes how people view behaviour, difference, and disability.

• In some cultures, open discussion of developmental differences is accepted and supported.
• In others, stigma exists around any form of difference, causing people to hide their diagnosis or avoid seeking help.

Expectations around behaviour, dress, or communication can create extra pressures for autistic people. If their way of interacting does not fit with cultural norms, they may experience rejection or isolation.

Attitudes of Professionals

Staff working in health, social care, or education can have a huge impact. Those with up-to-date training and a respectful approach help autistic people to learn, work, and take part fully in life. They offer tailored strategies and adapt communication as needed.

However, staff with poor training or negative attitudes may assume the person is being difficult on purpose. This can reduce opportunities, damage confidence, and cause distress for everyone involved.

Educational Environment

Schools and colleges play a major role in shaping experience. Some provide specialist support, quiet spaces, or sensory-friendly adjustments.

Positive learning environments help the individual thrive, make friends, and reach their goals. Without support, autistic learners may be misunderstood, bullied, or excluded. They may cope by withdrawing, refusing school, or displaying distressed behaviour.

Social Inclusion and Friendships

Social networks help everyone feel part of their community. Autistic people can find it harder to make and maintain friendships, especially if peers do not understand social difference.

Social barriers may include:

• Bullying or teasing
• Lack of understanding or patience
• Mismatched interests or communication styles

Isolation can lead to poor mental health and low confidence. Support groups, social skills training, and activities focused on shared interests can help the person make friends and feel valued.

Access to Services

Access to the right services shapes experience. Early identification and diagnosis lead to better support at home, school, and work.

Poor access to assessments, slow referrals, or long waiting lists can delay help. Without adjustments, people may miss out on education, employment, or hobbies. Families can feel lost or unsupported, causing extra stress.

Physical Environment

Physical settings affect wellbeing. For example:

• Overcrowded classrooms or workplaces can overwhelm the senses.
• Large, busy public spaces may be difficult for those sensitive to noise and movement.
• Bright lights or strong smells might cause discomfort or distress.

Adaptations like quiet rooms, noise-cancelling headphones, or flexible working arrangements can improve comfort and participation.

Impact on Others

Autism affects not just the person, but those around them too. Family members, peers, and staff all experience the effects of these factors, both positive and negative.

Impact on Family Members

The demands of caring for an autistic person can affect routines, finances, and emotional health.

• Family members may experience stress, exhaustion, or isolation.
• Siblings may feel overlooked, jealous, or responsible for helping out.
• Relationships between parents can come under strain.

Access to support, short breaks, and peer groups can make a difference to the whole family.

Impact on Friends and Peers

Friends and peers may not know how to support an autistic person. Misunderstandings can arise if the autistic person does not respond in expected ways.

With the right education, peers can become supportive and accepting. Schools that provide autism awareness sessions create a more inclusive environment for everyone.

Impact on Professionals and Staff

Staff may need to adjust their approach to meet the person’s needs. This can involve:

• Using simple, direct language
• Allowing extra processing time
• Providing visual supports
• Adapting activities or settings

Lack of training or resources can lead to frustration. Staff may feel unprepared, especially if the person displays distressed behaviour. Ongoing training and clear guidance help staff feel more confident and provide better care.

Impact on the Wider Community

Community attitudes can influence opportunities for autistic people. Where acceptance and understanding exist, autistic people can contribute their skills, creativity, and different ways of thinking.

Communities that fail to adapt risk excluding talented individuals. Ignorance and discrimination cause harm to both autistic people and society as a whole.

The Role of the Individual

It is important to recognise that the individual with autism is more than their diagnosis. Every person brings their own strengths, interests, and coping strategies.

Some autistic people develop strong skills in areas such as art, music, science, or technology. When they are given encouragement and support, they can achieve high levels of success. The right environment helps talents to flourish, and reduces the impact of barriers.

Strategies to Support Positive Experiences

Supporting the individual and those around them involves removing barriers and building on strengths. Some helpful approaches include:

• Providing clear information and training to family, peers, and staff
• Using person-centred plans that reflect individual needs and preferences
• Recognising and supporting sensory differences
• Offering communication aids and support
• Creating calm, predictable routines
• Celebrating achievements and strengths
• Encouraging the person’s interests and hobbies
• Supporting social skills and friendship-building
• Ensuring timely access to services

Listening to the individual and involving them in decisions ensures their voice is heard.

Final Thoughts

Every autistic person’s experience is shaped by a unique combination of internal and external factors. The environment around them, the attitudes of others, family support, and the availability of services all play a part.

Families, professionals, and the wider community all have a role to play in removing barriers and encouraging understanding. With the right knowledge, adjustments, and mindset, it is possible to create positive environments where autistic people thrive.

By focusing on what helps and on each person’s strengths, workers in health and social care can make a real difference. Listening, being respectful, and staying informed are the keys to supporting better outcomes for autistic people and those around them.