What is autistic info dumping?

Info dumping (or infodumping) is a type of communication that autistic people do. Also referred to as monologuing, it involves an autistic person talking excessively and in detail about a topic involving their interests and passions. It feels like a natural way to communicate because of its directness and focus on facts and logic.

Erika Sanborne, autistic educator and researcher, describes it as “enthusiastically communicating a large quantity of words, with an inordinate amount of detail, about one super interesting category of information, all at once, interpersonally.” Info dumping is often called a love language because it’s a way for autistic individuals to express what they are passionate about with those they care about most.

It can start off by sharing one or two facts that quickly snowballs into sharing a lot of details and information.  Information shared during an info dump session is often quite detailed, in-depth, and exhaustive. The autistic person may talk for long periods of time, even hours, regardless of the other person’s interest level.

A neurotypical person may label info dumping as poor turn-taking, social deficits, interrupting, lack of reciprocity, ignoring social cues, repetitive, verbose, and a lack of awareness of social conventions.

Why do autistic people info dump?

There are a few reasons why autistic people info dump.

• Sharing information ties closely to sharing their joy and enthusiasm.
• It’s a way to initiate an interaction.
• When it happens in a safe space, it can create a sense of community.
• It can be a coping mechanism for dealing with feelings.
• It can help a person self-regulate.
• It is an authentic and natural way of self-expression.
• As thoughts build up, they may need to be expressed. Some people feel like they might explode if they don’t release their thoughts.
• It’s a way connect with others who have similar interests or who understand neurodiversity.

What are some receptive communication strategies and other ideas to help with balanced communication?

Info dumping can be overwhelming, Conversations should be balanced, where both people can share ideas. Good communication is not only about sending messages, but also about  paying attention to what the other person needs and how they feel. While info dumping can be a love language,  it’s important to think about how much the listener can handle and if they are interested during these talks.

For balanced communication around info dumping, there needs to be a focus on receptive communication which involves listening actively, being empathetic, and trying to understand how the autistic individual feels.

Here are 10 tips to show support for an autistic person who info dumps:

1. Show real interest: Ask follow-up questions to show that you’re paying attention.
2. Set soft limits: If necessary, kindly guide the talk to a topic you both share or suggest other ways to share info, like writing or using visual aids.
3. Make a safe space: Let the person know you value their enthusiasm and encourage them to share what they love. Create places where autistic people can share their interests without fear of being judged or interrupted.
4. Be patient and kind: Understand that info dumping isn’t meant to be too much for you.
5. Set gentle boundaries: Sometimes we can’t listen to info dumping due to other pressing matters. Let the person know that you value what they have to say and that you would love to engage with them, but you are unable to do so at this time. I always tell me daughter when I’ll be free to listen to what happened on Survivor or anime plots.
6. Help them connect with like-minded others: Helping a person to connect with others who share the same passions will give them a very natural outlet for info dumping where they may even develop friendships and deeper relationships. Find activities where like-minded people gather. Ex. My daughter loves anime so she attends an anime drawing class. My son loves music so he goes to a drum circle and attends a music class every week.
7. Use nonverbal cues: Body language, such as nodding and eye contact, can show that you are engaged in the conversation.
8. Ask clarifying questions: Sometimes, the information shared may be complex or detailed. Asking questions can help clarify points and show interest in the topic.
9. Encourage a 2-way dialogue: Ask for their opinions and feedback on different topics, not just the information they are sharing.
10. Offer praise and encouragement: Acknowledge the effort and passion put into sharing the information.

If an autistic person is non-speaking, can they still info dump?

The answer is yes they can! Offer them the tools to do so. For example, if the person uses an AAC device create a page dedicated to their interests. Other ideas for info dumping are writing their thoughts down in a book or journal, showing you a video or book, creating a PowerPoint presentation, pointing to things, or scrapbooking a favorite topic.

How can we promote inclusivity and understanding around info dumping?

There are some things we can do to promote inclusivity and understanding of info dumping such as educating ourselves and fostering an environment of empathy and acceptance.

1. Educate Yourself: Understanding autistic info dumping and its significance and meaning helps to foster a compassionate approach.
2. Encourage Others: Promote awareness about the value of information sharing. Encourage peers to be more accepting and supportive.
3. Adapt Communication Styles: Adjusting the way one communicates can make interactions smoother. For instance, using clear and direct language can be helpful.
4. Create Support Networks: Establishing support groups or networks where individuals feel accepted can promote inclusivity. Engaging in activities with others that share the same interests can build friendships and a community.

Info dumping is a way of communicating, coping, and connecting with others. Build an understanding about info dumping and interact with kindness. Learn more about thoughts and emotions related to info dumping. When an autistic person feels supported and accepted in this unique way of communication, it fosters their sense of well-being.

References

Moody, B. (December 2, 2024). Autistic and ADHD Info Dumping: Tips for Loved Ones. Thrive Autism Coaching

Moody, B. (December 5, 2024). Autistic and ADHD Info Dumping: Tips for Adults. Thrive Autism Coaching

Ng, L. Understanding Autistic Info Dumping: A Comprehensive Guide. Level Ahead ABA

Price, E. Autistic communication & interaction styles. Emily Price Autistic Speech and Language Therapist

Robson, D. Infodumping in Autism: What You Need to Know. And Next Comes L

Sanborne, E. (February 24, 2024). Help! What is info dumping? ADHD? Is info dumping bad?. Autistic PhD