So, I’m autistic and my brother is schizophrenic. Our dad is autistic and mom is diagnosed BPD. I personally see many similarities and contrasts between us, but I don’t really have much understanding in the nuts and bolts. Any constructive input would be greatly appreciated.
In: Biology
There may be some overlap but in general, autism is a deficiency in emotional intelligence that interferes with social interaction. A person who is severely autistic will be withdrawn and unable to make lasting connections with many other people. They can be awkward in groups, favoring extremes in crowd sizes (either intimate one on one settings or huge crowds where they don’t have to focus on one person, but not in between)
Schizophrenia is hallmarked by the onset of psychotic symptoms. Seeing, hearing, feeling, smelling, or tasting things that are not there or are wrong. Seeing people that are not there, hearing voices, or believing delusional ideas are the stereotypical issues, but each person is different.
In both cases, there can be a withdrawal from normal interactions, with a decrease in emotional range and quiet behavior outside of the realm of personal interest (maybe “math” for an autistic or “religious sacrifice” for a schizophrenic)
Anecdotally, I have a family member who essentially wanders the street, and has a firm believe that God wants him to give away everything he owns. He would literally give the shirt off his back to someone who said they were cold. His mother had to keep his name off the deed to his house, or he would give it away, too.
While an autistic person might be similarly generous because he thinks that is what might be expected, the schizophrenic is compelled in the behavior with little to no outside influence.
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