In this episode Dr. Theresa Regan explores why connection sometimes feels confusing by distinguishing task-oriented moments (doing and finishing) from social-oriented moments (sharing and bonding). Through relatable examples—a painting day gone sideways and a family seeking emotional presence—she shows how different expectations create everyday misunderstandings.
The episode offers a simple takeaway: notice what kind of moment you and the other person want, make intentional choices, and balance needs to reduce confusion and strengthen relationships.
<a href='https://www.amazon.com/dp/B098KQKZT7?binding=kindle_edition&qid=1774719781&sr=8-1&ref=dbs_dp_rwt_sb_pc_tkin'>Understanding Autism Book Series</a>
<a href='https://www.adultandgeriatricautism.com'>Autism in the Adult website</a>

In this episode Dr. Theresa Regan explores why connection sometimes feels confusing by distinguishing task-oriented moments (doing and finishing) from social-oriented moments (sharing and bonding). Through relatable examples—a painting day gone sideways and a family seeking emotional presence—she shows how different expectations create everyday misunderstandings. The episode offers a simple takeaway: notice what kind of moment you and the other person want, make intentional choices, and balance needs to reduce confusion and strengthen relationships. Understanding Autism Book Series Autism in the Adult website

In this episode Dr. Theresa Regan explores why connection sometimes feels confusing by distinguishing task-oriented moments (doing and finishing) from social-oriented moments (sharing and bonding). Through relatable examples—a painting day gone sideways and a family seeking emotional presence—she shows how different expectations create everyday misunderstandings.
The episode offers a simple takeaway: notice what kind of moment you and the other person want, make intentional choices, and balance needs to reduce confusion and strengthen relationships.
<a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B098KQKZT7?binding=kindle_edition&amp;qid=1774719781&amp;sr=8-1&amp;ref=dbs_dp_rwt_sb_pc_tkin" rel="noopener noreferrer">Understanding Autism Book Series</a>
<a href="https://www.adultandgeriatricautism.com" rel="noopener noreferrer">Autism in the Adult website</a>

Tasks and Togetherness: When Connection Feels Confusing (EP 75)

Theresa Regan, Ph.D., is a rare combination of adult neuropsychologist (specialist in brain-behavior relationships), parent of an amazing child on the autism spectrum, and certified autism specialist with the IBCCES. She is deeply grateful to bring validation, hope, and purpose to individuals and their families living on the autism spectrum. With this mission at its core, she founded and directs the OSF HealthCare Adult Diagnostic Autism Clinic in central Illinois. Her books include Understanding Autism in Adults and Aging Adults and Understanding Autistic Behaviors. For more information and to join her new online autism community for free visit www.adultandgeriatricautism.com. Join her for podcast topics related to autism in the adult.

The opinions expressed are not necessarily those of her employer. All listeners are encouraged to research multiple opinions about the topics discussed before making their own decisions.

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Theresa Regan, Ph.D., is a rare combination of adult neuropsychologist (specialist in brain-behavior relationships), parent of an amazing child on the autism spectrum, and certified autism specialist with the IBCCES. She is deeply grateful to bring validation, hope, and purpose to individuals and their families living on the autism spectrum. With this mission at its core, she founded and directs the OSF HealthCare Adult Diagnostic Autism Clinic in central Illinois. Her books include Understanding Autism in Adults and Aging Adults and Understanding Autistic Behaviors. For more information and to join her new online autism community for free visit www.adultandgeriatricautism.com. Join her for podcast topics related to autism in the adult. The opinions expressed are not necessarily those of her employer. All listeners are encouraged to research multiple opinions about the topics discussed before making their own decisions.

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Tasks and Togetherness: When Connection Feels Confusing (EP 75)

Tasks and Togetherness: When Connection Feels Confusing (EP 75)

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