I thought it could be fun/interesting to go through an autism test question by question, and see what resonates with people, and how we approach thinking about the questions. So to start, here’s question 1 of the AQ-10.
1. I often notice small sounds when others do not.
- Definitely Agree
- Slightly Agree
- Slightly Disagree
- Definitely Disagree
Is this statement true for you? Can you think of any examples? Is it an easy or difficult question for you to answer?
You can find the full AQ-10 test here. Note this test is intended as a quick screener, and cannot diagnose or rule out any condition on its own.
This first one is an easy question for me. Nobody else seems to be bothered by TVs hissing to themselves on standby. Nobody else notices that fridge compressor that squeals when you leave the door open. I’m usually first to notice drips, leaks, animals, equipment left running. I used to be bothered by bat calls, and that’s supposedly inaudible to humans.
That’s a Definitely Agree for me.
“What do you mean the thermostat clicks when it engages and that wakes you up?”
“How can you not hear it??”
Some species do partially chirp into the human audible range. But yeah it still requires moderately good hearing.
Thanks, that’s actually quite validating to know. I’m not sure if hearing is even the right word - I’d just notice I was flinching as if there were a loud noise, and then - hey, there’s bats outside. Getting older now, so I think I’m cured of that at least.
I’m not the only one that can hear electricity then?