WHY we Ask WHY before we want to do things…
Neurodivergent individuals often ask "why" before they do things for a bunch of reasons. I hate being told to do something and not knowing the logical reason for doing it. To be clear, it has to be logical to MY brain... It's like my brain's way of processing information and communicating.
Since I couldn't find any medical or therapy resources out there to explain this to someone, I made my own.... so here we go...
Here are a few possible explanations for why we ask why every time:
Figuring things out:
We Neurodivergent adults and kids, like those with autism or ADHD, we have our own unique style of processing information. We like to know the purpose or reason behind an action before diving into it. Asking "why" helps us wrap our heads around the task or situation we are facing.
Avoiding sensory overload:
Some neurodivergent people have super sensitive senses. They might ask "why" to check if there's anything overwhelming or potentially bothersome about what they're about to do. Understanding why they're doing something helps them prepare for any sensory challenges and come up with ways to handle them.
Getting the gears going:
We can sometimes struggle with executive functions, like planning and getting started on tasks. By asking "why," we're trying to establish a clear goal or purpose. Knowing why we are doing something helps us get motivated and organized. It's like giving our brain a nudge in the right direction.
Needing a sense of predictability:
Some neurodivergent people... me I'm the problem, it's me... find comfort in routines and predictability. When we ask "why," it's our way of creating a mental roadmap. Understanding the purpose behind an action helps us feel more secure and less anxious. It also lets me anticipate any changes or disruptions that might come up. Of course, RSD can add a colossal roadblock here, but knowing is half the battle, right?
Remember, not all neurodivergent individuals ask "why" before doing things, and everyone's experience is different. Many factors are at play, like personal preferences and individual circumstances. So, it's all about understanding and respecting each person's unique way of navigating the world.
