Many people with AS question whether social competence is necessary or just NTs imposing their standards. Two answers: **1. Emotional well-being:** Most people with AS are lonely, not loners by choice. The depression associated with AS in adolescence and adulthood is most often a result of being unable to establish or keep relationships. **2. The knowledge economy:** Most knowledge work involves teams. Interview processes assess people skills. Without social competence, qualified AS individuals can't get hired. **The downward spiral:** Lacking interview skills → can't get suitable work → takes manual labor (coordination problems) or telesales (constant hostile contact) → fails at both → depression and dependency. **Workplace coping strategies:** - Identify high-functioning people and model their behaviors (adapted to suit AS) - Use therapists who understand AS for social skills coaching - Employment counselors can provide and rehearse interview scripts - Seek organizational consultants for promotion coaching - Choose a competent partner who can help navigate workplace politics **The UK vs US gap:** The UK has organizations that help AS individuals find employment. The US does not — yet. **Source:** Lovett, *Solutions for Adults with Asperger Syndrome*, Ch 10 (pp268-274) See also: [[AS Desires Relationships Struggles]], [[Social Echolalia Modeling AS]]