What’s a Clear Way to Explain DM Etiquette and Responding to Strangers Online?

PostedDecember 4, 2025

UpdatedDecember 4, 2025

ByMy Patient Advice

Author: Hannah Smith, MSc | Reviewed by: Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Autism and DM etiquette can be challenging, especially when it comes to understanding how to respond to online messages from strangers. For many autistic individuals, online communication can feel more direct or less nuanced, which can lead to misunderstandings or safety concerns. Teaching autism and DM etiquette clearly helps ensure safe communication and sets appropriate boundaries when engaging with others online.

Key Points for Explaining DM Etiquette and Stranger Interaction

These guidelines help ensure that online communication is respectful, safe, and secure for autistic individuals.

Clarify the Basics of DM Etiquette

Teach that DM etiquette involves respectful communication. Emphasise the importance of thinking before responding to a message and being clear and polite in replies. It’s also okay not to respond immediately or to choose not to reply if the message feels uncomfortable.

Recognise Stranger Danger

Explain stranger danger in the context of online messages. Help the individual understand that not everyone they interact with online is trustworthy. They should never share personal details like their full name, address, or phone number with someone they don’t know personally.

Set Boundaries for Safe Communication

Safe communication includes knowing how to manage uncomfortable messages. Teach them how to block, mute, or report suspicious users. Reinforce that it’s their right to set these boundaries and not feel pressured to engage with anyone who makes them uncomfortable.

Visit providers like Autism Detect for personal consultations to learn more about autism and DM etiquette, online messages, and maintaining safe communication online.

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to Understanding Social Norms and Boundaries.

Hannah Smith, MSc

Author

Hannah Smith is a clinical psychologist with a Master’s in Clinical Psychology and over three years of experience in behaviour therapy, special education, and inclusive practices. She specialises in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), and inclusive education strategies. Hannah has worked extensively with children and adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), ADHD, Down syndrome, and intellectual disabilities, delivering evidence-based interventions to support development, mental health, and well-being.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the author's privacy.

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Reviewer

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez is a UK-trained physician with an MBBS and experience in general surgery, cardiology, internal medicine, gynecology, intensive care, and emergency medicine. She has managed critically ill patients, stabilised acute trauma cases, and provided comprehensive inpatient and outpatient care. In psychiatry, Dr. Fernandez has worked with psychotic, mood, anxiety, and substance use disorders, applying evidence-based approaches such as CBT, ACT, and mindfulness-based therapies. Her skills span patient assessment, treatment planning, and the integration of digital health solutions to support mental well-being.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the reviewer's privacy.