Thoughts and illustrations on living with Asperger's Syndrome.

Sunday, April 27, 2014

Systematic Like Me

Hey, do you like personality tests? Maybe you know your Myers-Briggs type, but do you know your communication style? Before you read the rest of this post, take this 25 question test. [PDF]  

Note: When scoring, you may notice that question 8 has no number. The scoring form (page 5) goes in order, numbering is just off by 1 starting with #9. Please excuse the glitch; this is the only “free” version of the test available online.

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So, which style did you score?

If you’re on the autism spectrum, I have a hunch that your dominant score was Analytical. (Also called Systematic.) The vast majority of my answers were in this category. Many common autistic traits can be found under the Systematic type. (Introverts in general will probably score here too.) But I also scored in other categories for certain questions… weird!

The HDRQ Personality Style Model posits that there are four communication styles, based on your choice of words, the way you say them, your body language, and personal space preferences.



It can also be described as a continuum from low to high expression of emotions, and low to high assertiveness in influencing others, with the four styles representing four quadrants. Read a more detailed analysis of the HRDQ model here. [PDF]

There’s something fascinating about this test. Look what they say! Systematic is one of four normal communication styles you find. All four styles have their strengths and weaknesses - and none is considered undesirable! I find that a nice bit of neurodiverse thinking, don’t you?

I wrote some time ago about “chasing typical,” how back in school, I was told my style was a weakness, limited my potential, needed to be changed, and so on. Imagine if my "shortcomings" had been viewed as a normal personality style instead. Not only normal, but valued! Hm, perhaps I am more typical than I thought...

So, to review: When an acquaintance puts their hand on your arm, you get annoyed: Normal!


When someone messes with your neat, organized desktop*, you get upset: Normal!


When people get upset or cry in front of you, you try to remove yourself from the situation: Normal!


So if you’re Systematic like me, use your strengths! Flex dem muscles! You don’t need to change.


* Thanks @shitmyaspiesays for words to live by.

Sunday, April 13, 2014

Sunday, April 6, 2014

Half Life







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P.S. - Dudes! FlummoxVision™, the new iPad app from Flummox and Friends launched this week! It includes the pilot episode, plus you can purchase NEW video shorts, starting with "The Alternate Method," from right inside the app. Includes "Discuss Mode" to interact with the characters, subtitles option, and notification as new videos become available. Download FlummoxVision™ for free on the App Store TODAY!