Ugh – what a tongue twister!
This word is not universally and precisely defined, but is used here to describe a special skill and idiosyncrasy of Aspies: some of them are particularly prone to separate various topics, aspects of their lives, or relationships completely from each other.
Some Aspies are particularly good crisis managers. They have an extraordinary ability to manage even under extreme circumstances. Their actions, their thinking, their decision making is unencumbered by all else that is happening around them, the team, the company.
In the same way, they may be especially good partners or friends in hard or tumultuous times. They might be the only friend who can calmly listen to you when you share your current drama with them. They will be able to keep calm, give you wise advice without judging you.
There are many circumstances where this skill is very useful – especially in the so-called VUCA world or stressful times.
However, the same compartmentalization can result in some of the seemingly weird, inadequate, or outrageous behaviors that break relationships or make headlines.
When an Aspie compartmentalizes, she might just as well put multiple romantic partners in separate compartments – and be promiscuous without the slightest feeling of wrongdoing.
Or the other Aspie might be so audacious as to expect his neighbor to help him carry a heavy piece of furniture the stairs even though he just yelled at him the day before. To this Aspie, the two situations may honestly feel completely separate, while they are fully intertwined for the neighbor.
Finally, this compartmentalization may contribute to their perceived lack of tact, politeness, or respect in various social interactions. For example, an Aspie might fully recognize the seniority of a board member or the respect traditionally afforded to an elderly neighbor. However, their focus and reactions can be strongly influenced by entirely separate concerns, such as frustration with obstructive policies or personal enthusiasm for unconventional ideas like polyamory.
This can lead to social encounters that might be perceived as awkward. Nonetheless, it also introduces an element of unpredictability and distinctiveness to interactions and life with an Aspie, which some may find refreshing and inspiring.
For the Aspie, it can be very helpful to know both about this compartmentalization, as well as about how things are heavily intertwined for others. With that knowledge, the Aspie can develop a rational sense of these links and just mentally try to adapt to the others’ view of the world.