Subject: Aspergers Syndrome and social difficulties Objective: I intend to produce a visual and educational piece which is an expression of my own difficulties in communicating and socialising with others My idea developed after reading and being inspired by the quote below. “Many people on the autistic spectrum may need a “thimble” of socialising instead of the big oversized sixty-four ounce gulper that many “normal” people seek out.” Dr. Tony Attwood My view of social interaction is very simple a person says “Hello” to someone and they say “Hello” back. There is a pattern; you say something and then the other person says something back to you. Can it be simplified even more? Is there some sort of social formula? After some research, I emailed a Professor at Birmingham University and asked if he could help me in creating a formula which

shows the difficulties in social interaction people with Aspergers have. Professor David Needham provided me with a model formula which shows social interaction in people with Aspergers and without Aspergers. I have had cast, three silver thimbles to represent the difficulties in social interaction for people with Aspergers. Each thimble is engraved with the social formula for people with Aspergers. All of the thimbles are filled with resin, which contains precious gems, these symbolise my friendships throughout my life so far. Each gem has a meaning relating to communication and relationships. o SAPPHIRE: - Believed to help with communication. o TOPAZ: - Ability to grasp high-level concepts, confidence, personal power. o DIAMOND: - Amplify the thoughts of its user. o Aquamarine: - Stone of courage, it is said to help enhance your communication skills.

o Lapis Lazuli: - This gem is said to be a gem of love, friendship and truth as it encourages harmony in relationships. The first thimble is standing tall, filled with resin and gems; the thimble proudly displays a formula which represents the difficulties people who are on the autistic spectrum have in social interaction. The second thimble is falling; this symbolises the times I have said or done something inappropriate. Knowing how to behave in social situations is very difficult and can be very confusing, as a result I struggle to function; this can cause friction in socialising. The third thimble has fallen and is revealing the precious gems which are the relationships I have had throughout my life so far.