Unmasking Autism Through Lock Picking

As an Occupational Therapist specializing in neurodiversity, I've developed an unconventional yet powerful method to help individuals understand, unmask, and embrace their autism - through the intricate world of lock picking. This approach has proven especially valuable for those newly diagnosed or still coming to terms with their neurodiversity.

A Personal Journey with Lock Picking

Lock picking has been a passionate hobby of mine since 2017. What started as a personal interest has evolved into a transformative tool in my professional life. Those who have worked or studied with me are likely familiar with my lock picking demonstrations, which have become a signature element in my practice.

Unmasking Autism: The Lock Picking Analogy

Let's explore how lock picking serves as a powerful metaphor for understanding autism, using the DSM-5 criteria as our guide:

1. Social Communication and Interaction Imagine a lock picking enthusiast who struggles to: "Read" social situations, like having difficulty interpreting the subtle feedback from lock pins Communicate their interests, finding it challenging to explain intricate lock mechanisms to non-enthusiasts Build relationships, akin to struggling to connect with others at lock picking meetups. Recognizing these challenges as part of one's neurotype can relieve the pressure to conform to neurotypical social norms.

2. Restricted, Repetitive Patterns of Behavior, Interests, or Activities Picture a lock picker who: Has an intense focus on specific lock types or picking techniques, perhaps only interested in tubular locks Follows rigid routines, like always arranging tools in the same precise order before picking Shows sensitivity to environmental changes, such as being uncomfortable if the lighting or workspace setup is altered. Embracing these patterns as valuable aspects of one's identity rather than trying to suppress them.

3. Early Onset of Symptoms These traits would be noticeable from a young age, like a child showing an early fascination with locks and mechanisms. Understanding that these early signs are part of one's core self, not "symptoms" to be cured.

4. Significant Impact on Daily Life The individual might face challenges in work or social situations due to their intense focus on lock picking or difficulty relating to those who don't share their interest. Recognizing these impacts and developing strategies to navigate them authentically, rather than masking difficulties.

5. Unique Explanation of Behaviors These traits aren't simply explained by being new to lock picking or having a particularly methodical personality. Appreciating the depth and complexity of autistic experiences, moving beyond surface-level explanations.

Building Authenticity Through Understanding

For those newly diagnosed or exploring their autism, this analogy offers several benefits:

1. Tangible Representation: The physical nature of locks and picking tools provides a concrete way to understand abstract concepts of neurology and behavior.

2. Strength-Based Perspective: Lock picking requires skill, patience, and attention to detail - attributes many autistic individuals possess. This framing helps shift from a deficit-based to a strength-based view of autism.

3. Permission to Explore: Just as lock picking involves trial and error, this analogy encourages autistic individuals to explore and experiment with their self-expression and coping strategies.

4. Empowerment: Understanding the "mechanism" of one's own mind can be incredibly empowering, fostering self-advocacy and self-acceptance.

5. Community Connection: The lock picking community, like the autistic community, values neurodiversity and unique problem-solving approaches, helping to foster a sense of belonging.

Real-World Impact

This approach has been particularly effective with clients who are newly diagnosed or struggling with their autistic identity. Many report that the lock picking analogy helps them:

• Understand their sensory experiences and information processing in a new light

• Recognize and appreciate their unique strengths and problem-solving abilities

• Feel more comfortable with the idea of 'unmasking' and being their authentic selves

• Explain their experiences to friends and family in a relatable way

Teenage boys, in particular, have responded positively to this approach, finding it an engaging and non-threatening way to explore their neurodiversity.

Conclusion

By viewing autism through the lens of lock picking, we open up new pathways for self-understanding, acceptance, and authenticity. This approach emphasizes that like each lock, each autistic individual is unique, valuable, and worthy of understanding.

As an OT, using this analogy has allowed me to connect with clients on a deeper level, providing them with a framework for self-discovery and self-acceptance. It's a powerful reminder that sometimes, the key to unlocking our authentic selves lies in unexpected places - or hobbies!