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AUTISM GLOSSARY
Scripts
DEFINITION
Scripts are memorized phrases or dialogue that autistic people use in social situations. Scripts may come from movies, TV shows, books, or past conversations. They provide predictable language for unpredictable social situations.
WHY IT MATTERS
Scripting is a legitimate communication strategy. It reduces the cognitive load of generating novel language in real time and allows participation in social situations that would otherwise be overwhelming.
COMMON MISCONCEPTION
Using scripts does not mean someone is not communicating authentically. Scripts are tools — just like any other communication strategy. They often carry real meaning that the speaker is conveying through borrowed language.