Calendar of events

Autistic individuals often experience shame with particular intensity, yet this vulnerability is rarely addressed in clinical or educational contexts. This talk explores the science behind why autism and shame intersect so powerfully, then moves toward actionable solutions: how parents, clinicians, educators, and communities can practise genuine empathy and reduce the shame-generating patterns that compound across autistic people's lives. Crucially, this presentation examines how contemporary neoliberal culture - with its emphasis on productivity, neurotypical conformity, and the relentless demand for self-optimisation - intensifies shame experiences in autistic individuals, creating additional layers of perceived inadequacy and exclusion.

Whether participants work with autistic individuals or are autistic themselves, this presentation offers both understanding and practical pathways toward more affirming relationships and systems. By interrogating the cultural narratives that pathologise autistic ways of being and examining how institutional contexts amplify shame, participants will gain insights into interrupting these dynamics in their own professional and personal contexts.

Hosts: Suzanne Aussems & Chiara Gambi

Join us for an informal networking event to connect with fellow researchers. Experienced PhD researchers will share their top 3 tips for new starters. There will be a potluck lunch after this event in breakout space.

This is a social following the PGR career development and employability session on "Things I wish I knew at the start of my PhD".

All are welcome! Please feel free to bring a dish, drink, or snack to share.