NeuroWise: A Multi-Agent LLM "Glass-Box" System for Practicing Double-Empathy Communication with Autistic Partners

TL;DR

NeuroWise is an AI-powered multi-agent system designed to improve communication between neurotypical and autistic individuals by reducing deficit-based attributions and enhancing understanding during interactions.

Contribution

This paper introduces NeuroWise, a novel multi-agent LLM system that supports neurotypical users in practicing double-empathy communication with autistic partners.

Findings

Participants found NeuroWise helpful in communication practice.

NeuroWise users showed reduced deficit framing in attributions.

Users completed conversations more efficiently with NeuroWise.

Abstract

The double empathy problem frames communication difficulties between neurodivergent and neurotypical individuals as arising from mutual misunderstanding, yet most interventions focus on autistic individuals. We present NeuroWise, a multi-agent LLM-based coaching system that supports neurotypical users through stress visualization, interpretation of internal experiences, and contextual guidance. In a between-subjects study (N=30), NeuroWise was rated as helpful by all participants and showed a significant condition-time effect on deficit-based attributions (p=0.02): NeuroWise users reduced deficit framing, while baseline users shifted toward blaming autistic "deficits" after difficult interactions. NeuroWise users also completed conversations more efficiently (37% fewer turns, p=0.03). These findings suggest that AI-based interpretation can support attributional change by helping users recognize communication challenges as mutual.