Supporting autistic people with political views

Forming personal beliefs and political views is a fundamental aspect of citizenship and personal identity for everyone. Autistic individuals, like all members of society, have the right to develop their own understanding of the world, engage with political discourse, and form their own opinions. However, certain characteristics associated with autism can sometimes increase vulnerability to harmful influences, including extremist ideologies and radicalisation.

Supporting autistic people in this area requires a careful balance: fostering informed political engagement while remaining vigilant to potential safeguarding risks. This involves promoting critical thinking, ensuring access to reliable information, understanding specific vulnerabilities, and knowing how to respond appropriately and compassionately if concerns arise.

Encouraging Informed Personal Political Views

Developing political awareness and forming personal views are important aspects of self-discovery and participation in society. For autistic individuals, this process is just as crucial as for anyone else, contributing to their sense of identity, autonomy, and belonging within their community. Encouraging this engagement should be based on principles of respect for individual liberty and the right to hold personal beliefs.

However, support should also focus on ensuring this engagement is informed. This involves:

• Promoting Access to Reliable Information

  Helping individuals identify trustworthy sources of news and political information is vital. This might involve discussing different news outlets, fact-checking websites, and how to differentiate between opinion pieces and factual reporting. Information may need to be presented in accessible formats, considering potential communication differences.

• Developing Critical Thinking Skills

  Support should focus on developing the ability to analyse information critically. This includes questioning sources, identifying bias, understanding different perspectives, and evaluating evidence. Discussing how statistics can be manipulated or how persuasive language works can be beneficial. Helping individuals understand abstract political concepts may also be necessary, perhaps using concrete examples or visual aids.

• Encouraging Exploration of Diverse Perspectives

  It's healthy to be exposed to a range of political viewpoints. Encourage individuals to read or listen to different perspectives respectfully, even those they disagree with. This helps build a more nuanced understanding and counters the echo chambers often found online.

• Supporting Communication of Views

  Help individuals find comfortable and effective ways to express their own views, whether verbally, in writing, or through other means. This supports self-advocacy and ensures their voice can be heard.

By proactively supporting the development of informed political views, we empower autistic individuals to participate meaningfully in civic life while simultaneously building skills that offer protection against manipulation and misinformation.

The Problem of Extreme Views and Radicalisation

While the vast majority of autistic people will engage with politics in a healthy way, it's recognised that some individuals may be more vulnerable to extremist ideologies and radicalisation. Radicalisation is the process by which a person comes to support terrorism and extremist ideologies. Extremism involves vocal or active opposition to fundamental British values, including democracy, the rule of law, individual liberty, and mutual respect and tolerance for different faiths and beliefs.

Several factors that are often associated with autism might contribute to this vulnerability:

• Social Isolation and Desire for Belonging

  Difficulties with social interaction can sometimes lead to feelings of isolation. Extremist groups often prey on this, offering a sense of community, purpose, and belonging, albeit a harmful one.

• Literal Interpretation and Communication Differences

  A tendency towards literal thinking can make individuals susceptible to propaganda that presents simplistic 'black and white' solutions to complex problems. Difficulty interpreting non-verbal cues or understanding manipulative intent can make it harder to recognise when someone has ill-intent.

• Intense Focus and Special Interests

  The capacity for intense focus on specific topics (special interests) is often a great strength. However, if this focus is directed towards extremist material, it can lead to rapid immersion and adoption of skewed viewpoints.

• Need for Structure and Rules

  A preference for clear rules and predictability might make rigid, rule-based extremist ideologies seem appealing, offering structure in a world perceived as chaotic.

• Online Exposure

  Much radicalisation now occurs online, where algorithms can create echo chambers, reinforcing extreme views and limiting exposure to alternative perspectives. Autistic individuals who spend significant time online pursuing interests may inadvertently encounter extremist content.

It is crucial to stress that being autistic absolutely does not mean someone is likely to become radicalised. These are potential vulnerabilities that might be exploited in some individuals, highlighting the need for awareness and appropriate safeguarding.

The UK Government's Prevent Strategy

In the United Kingdom, the government has a counter-terrorism strategy which includes a thing called 'Prevent' that aims to stop people from becoming terrorists or supporting terrorism. Prevent operates in the pre-criminal space, focusing on safeguarding individuals who are vulnerable to radicalisation and extremism. It involves identifying people at risk and providing them with tailored support to help divert them away from extremist paths.

Under the UK's Counter-Terrorism and Security Act 2015, specific authorities (including schools, colleges, universities, local authorities, and healthcare providers) have a statutory duty to have "due regard to the need to prevent people from being drawn into terrorism". This means incorporating 'Prevent awareness' into their safeguarding policies and procedures. For autistic people who are identified as being vulnerable, Prevent support might - for example - involve mentoring, discussion groups, or help accessing mainstream services to address their underlying needs (like social isolation or mental health difficulties) that might be contributing factors.

In these cases, the process of looking out for potential problems, identifying them, reporting them, and supporting people to change paths before any harm is done is called 'Safeguarding'.

Safeguarding Principles and Examples

Safeguarding means protecting an individual's right to live in safety, free from abuse and neglect. Autistic individuals may be at greater risk of various forms of harm, abuse, or exploitation due to factors like communication difficulties, social naivety, or dependency on others .

In the context of political views, safeguarding concerns might arise if a person is:

• Being Exploited Financially

  For example, if an autistic young person with an intense interest in a political cause is persuaded online to donate significant amounts of money (perhaps their benefits) to a group later identified as extremist, this may not only leave them unable to pay for essentials but also funds extremism.

• Being Manipulated into Harmful Actions

  If an autistic adult seeking social connections joins an online group with strong political views, over time, they may be encouraged by group members to share hateful content online or participate in activities that constitute harassment or an illegal protest - all without fully understanding the legal, ethical, moral or practical consequences. This is a danger sign for extremism.

• Being Groomed into an Extremist Ideology

  If an isolated autistic teenager finds an online forum discussing niche historical topics (perhaps one of their areas of special interest), and then within the forum extremist narratives are subtly introduced, they may be gradually drawn into accepting those views, often becoming withdrawn from family and friends and expressing an 'them against us' attitude. This is a danger sign for radicalisation and extremism.

• Exposed to Content Causing Significant Distress

  If an autistic person who is researching a particular topic online inadvertently clicks links leading to graphic extremist propaganda, they may have problems (due to their difficulties processing intense emotional content or sensory sensitivities) leading to significant distress, anxiety, or sleep disturbances. This is harmful to their mental health and wellbeing, and ultimately could have ramifications for their whole outlook on life and their overall wellbeing.

Safeguarding requires recognising these potential risks and having procedures in place to address them, always balancing protection with the individual's rights and autonomy. So what should we be watching out for, and how can we sensitively deal with it?

Keep an eye on their Online Safety

The internet is a primary arena for radicalisation and the spread of extremist ideologies. Supporting autistic people requires specific attention to online safety, particularly helping, educating, and supporting them in the following areas:

• Understanding Online Risks

  Discuss the specific dangers online, including misinformation, propaganda, echo chambers (where algorithms only show similar content), hate speech, online grooming (by extremists as well as sexual predators), and exposure to disturbing content.

• Evaluating Online Sources

  Teach skills to critically evaluate websites, social media accounts, and online articles. Who runs the site? What is their agenda? Is the information corroborated elsewhere? Are they presenting facts or opinions?

• Navigating Social Media Safely

  Discuss privacy settings, safe sharing of information, recognising fake profiles or bots, understanding online 'friends' versus real-world friends, and how to block or report harmful content or users.

• Recognising Persuasion and Manipulation

  Talk about persuasive techniques used online, such as emotionally charged language, conspiracy theories, creating an 'enemy', and appealing to a sense of grievance or belonging.

• Open Communication Channels

  Foster an environment where the individual feels safe to talk about anything worrying or confusing they encounter online, without fear of judgment or having their internet access immediately restricted (unless there's an immediate safety risk).

Obviously, online safety education should be ongoing and tailored to the individual's level of understanding and online activity. It's also important to use Active Listening techniques (repeat, ask, reflect) to be sure they've understood, absorbed, and remembered what you've been telling them about.

Advice for Family, Carers, and Supporters

Supporting an autistic person to navigate the complex world of politics while staying safe requires a thoughtful, proactive, and person-centred approach. Things you can do to help them might include:

• Foster Open Dialogue

  Create a safe space where the individual feels comfortable discussing their thoughts, feelings, and questions about politics, society, and things they encounter online or offline, without fear of dismissal or judgment. Practice empathetic listening.

• Encourage Critical Thinking

  Actively help develop skills to analyse information, identify bias, and understand different viewpoints. Model healthy scepticism yourself.

• Provide Balanced Information

  Ensure the individual has access to a range of reliable sources representing different perspectives. Discuss current events together, exploring the nuances.

• Connect Interests to Positive Outlets

  If an individual has an intense interest related to politics or social issues, help channel this positively. This could involve joining legitimate campaign groups, volunteering, engaging in respectful debate clubs, or researching policy.

• Discuss Values

  Talk about shared values like fairness, respect, tolerance, democracy, and the rule of law. Discuss why extremist views often conflict with these values.

• Stay Involved and Aware

  Maintain an awareness of the individual's online and offline social circles and interests, while respecting their privacy appropriately. Regular, open conversations are key.

Know the Signs of Radicalisation!

Be aware of potential warning signs of radicalisation. These are often subtle and can include:

• Sudden withdrawal from family and existing friends

• Secretiveness, especially about online activity

• Expressing sympathy for extremist causes or 'us vs. them' thinking

• Glorifying violence

• Possessing or accessing extremist literature or symbols

• Sudden, obsessive interest in extremist ideologies or groups

• Changes in appearance or behaviour aligning with a specific group.

The support you offer should be tailored to their preferred communication style, support needs, and ability to understand. If some areas are too complex, try to break them down into smaller stages or thoughts, then consider using social stories to string the ideas together in a memorable way.

So, if you have concerns that an autistic person is being exposed to extremist views or is moving down a path of radicalisation, it's crucial to act appropriately and follow safeguarding best practices, no matter who you are or how you know them.

When to Respond

Respond if you notice persistent concerning signs (as listed above), if the individual expresses views that endorse violence or hatred, if they talk about associating with known extremist groups, or if you have direct evidence of exposure to harmful extremist material.

Remember, a one-off comment might warrant having a conversation with them about it, but persistent patterns always require responses and intervention.

How to Respond

It's really important to respond in the right way, so as not to (a) cause panic or shame, (b) make the problem worse, or (c) drive the problem 'underground' (out of sight). Here's what you should do:

1. Stay Calm

   Avoid reacting with anger or panic, which could alienate the individual.

2. Gather Information (carefully and accurately!)

   Try to understand more about the situation through non-confrontational conversation, if appropriate and safe. Who are they talking to? What websites are they visiting? What are their beliefs based on? Do not 'investigate' yourself in a way that could put you or them at risk.

3. Follow Safeguarding Procedures

   Report your concerns immediately to your local authority, or your designated safeguarding lead (DSL) at work if you're a carer, educator or healthcare professional (e.g. school, college, workplace, or care provider). If there's no DSL or you are outside an organisational context, contact your local council's safeguarding team (children's or adults' services as appropriate) or the police if there is an immediate risk of harm.

4. Referral to Prevent (or any national equivalent)

   In the UK, the safeguarding team may decide a referral to the Prevent programme is appropriate (or perhaps an equivalent government-backed program in other countries). This is not a criminal sanction but a pathway to accessing the right support.

Practical examples of Safeguarding

Here are two hypothetical examples of how, why and when a safeguarding referral might need to be made. It's important not to overreact but it's also important to recognise when action is needed too...

1. A parent notices possible signs of radicalisation

   A parent notices their autistic teenager has started expressing extreme anti-immigrant views, seemingly parroting phrases from online videos. They try to discuss it calmly, but the teenager becomes defensive and secretive about their internet use. The parent contacts the school's designated safeguarding liaison for advice and support, at which point a professional opinion can be formed about any potential harm the teenager or their family might come to.

2. A support worker notices possible extremist behaviours

   A support worker notices an autistic young adult they support becoming increasingly isolated and spending hours online. They overhear the individual talking angrily about 'traitors' and find extremist symbols saved on their computer. The support worker immediately documents their concerns factually and reports them to their manager or designated safeguarding lead at work.

But most importantly, NEVER try to handle serious concerns alone or try to "keep it in the family"! Always follow established safeguarding procedures and report any genuine concerns you have to someone who has experience and authority. If you don't know who to contact, simply telephone your local County Council (in the UK) or your local municipal authority (or the police if the problem involves imminent danger!) and ask to speak to the Safeguarding Officer. They will be able to help you.

Remaining Person-Centred and Compassionate

Even when addressing serious safeguarding concerns, maintaining a person-centred and compassionate approach is vital. Don't forget, the person may themselves be a victim of grooming and manipulation - especially if they're vulnerable. Here's how you can support them properly:

1. Focus on the Individual

   Remember the person behind the behaviour or beliefs. Their needs, feelings, and well-being remain central.

2. Maintain Trust

   While you must act on safeguarding concerns, try to maintain a trusting relationship where possible. Explain what you are doing and why, in an accessible way, unless doing so would increase risk.

3. Avoid Judgment

   Approach the situation with concern rather than judgment. The individual may be confused, scared, or seeking validation.

4. Offer Continued Support

   Ensure the individual knows that support is available to them, both regarding the concerning beliefs and any underlying issues (e.g. loneliness, anxiety).

5. Collaborate (where possible!)

   Involve the individual in finding solutions and accessing support, respecting their autonomy as much as possible within safeguarding limits.

A compassionate, supportive approach is more likely to lead to positive engagement and a better outcome than a punitive or confrontational one.

Remember, it's not about control - it's about protection

Every person, including those on the autism spectrum, possesses the fundamental right to develop their own political beliefs and perspectives. Our role as supporters-whether family, educators, or care professionals-is to foster this engagement in an informed, critical, and healthy manner. This involves championing access to reliable information, encouraging diverse viewpoints, and nurturing critical thinking skills. Simultaneously, we hold a crucial safeguarding duty to remain vigilant to the risks of extremism and radicalisation, understanding potential vulnerabilities without making assumptions. Should concerns arise, responding calmly, appropriately, and through established channels is paramount.

Navigating this complex area requires a steadfast commitment from us all to person-centred, respectful, and compassionate support, making sure that autistic people are empowered to be fully engaged citizens while also being safeguarded from any possible harm.