The Double Empathy Problem in the Classroom

On episode 264, we're sharing our sister podcast's conversation about the double empathy problem. In Creating Neurodiversity-Affirming Schools, Emily Kircher-Morris and Amanda Morin explore a concept that challenges the assumption that neurodivergent individuals lack empathy, and instead highlights how misunderstandings happen between different neurotypes. They share personal stories, real-world classroom scenarios, and strategies to help educators bridge the communication gap with their neurodivergent students.

TAKEAWAYS

• The double empathy problem—what it is and why it matters in schools.

• How educators can shift from assuming misbehavior to seeking understanding.

• The difference between cognitive empathy (perspective-taking) and affective empathy (emotional connection).

• Why curiosity and asking the right questions can prevent conflict and improve student-teacher relationships.

• Strategies for making classroom environments more emotionally safe for neurodivergent students.

BACKGROUND READING

• The Double Empathy Problem (Damian Milton, 2012) 

• Neurowild by Em Hammond – Visual resources explaining neurodiversity concepts 

• Neurodiversity University Educator Hub: Join the Community

• Neurodiversity-Affirming Schools: Transforming Practices So All Students Feel Accepted and Supported - Order here

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