7 Traits that might indicate Autism
Thursday, July 25, 2024
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) encompasses a wide range of behaviors and traits that are unique to each individual.
Recognizing these traits can help foster better understanding and support.
Here are 7 interesting traits that might suggest someone is on the autism spectrum, along with strategies to support and accommodate these characteristics.
Desire to Be Alone: Home is a Fortress of Solitude
Issue:
Folks with autism often find solace in solitude, where they can escape the overwhelming stimuli of the outside world. Their home becomes a sanctuary, providing a safe and controlled environment where they can decompress and feel at ease.
Antidote:
Maintain a predictable routine and minimize unexpected changes to create a safe and nurturing home environment. Encourage alone time as a positive and necessary part of their day. When social interactions are needed, provide gradual and controlled exposure to social situations to help them feel more comfortable.
Pepper People with Follow-Up Questions to Better Understand Others
Issue:
People with autism may exhibit a profound curiosity about others, often asking detailed follow-up questions. This desire to understand others deeply can be their way of connecting, even if social interactions are challenging.
Antidote:
Engage with their questions and provide clear, concise answers. Appreciate their efforts to connect and encourage open dialogue. Offer social skills training to help them navigate conversations more comfortably and effectively.
Focus Time and Energy Inwardly: Focus on Their Passions
Issue:
Autistic folks often channel their time and energy into specific passions and interests. These intense focuses, known as special interests, bring them immense joy and a sense of accomplishment.
Antidote:
Support and nurture their special interests by providing resources and opportunities to explore these passions. Encourage them to share their knowledge and enthusiasm with others, which can help build social connections and self-esteem. If there’s a life balance issue and your left feeling lonely, science-based couples therapy can help.
Seem to Live in a World of Their Own, Unaware of the Wants and Needs of Others
Issue:
Autistic folks might appear detached or absorbed in their own world. This isn’t due to a lack of empathy but rather because their inner thoughts and activities are deeply engaging.
Antidote:
Use clear and direct communication to express your needs and expectations. Avoid making assumptions, using metaphors, and vagueness. Discuss neuro-normative social cues and empathetic responses in a matter-of-fact way. Encourage mindfulness practices to help them become more aware of their surroundings and the rituals and needs of others.
Struggle with Multitasking
Issue:
Multitasking can be particularly challenging for those with autism. They often prefer focusing on one task at a time, which allows them to work with precision and depth but might slow them down in multitasking environments. This is called monotropic focus.
Antidote:
Provide a structured environment that allows for single-task focus. Break down larger tasks into manageable steps and offer visual schedules or checklists to help them stay organized. Be patient and understand their need to complete one task before moving on to the next.
Startled by Noises: Sensitive to Noises
Issue:
A heightened sensitivity to noise is a common trait among autistic folks. Sudden or loud noises can be startling and overwhelming, disrupting their sense of peace and concentration.
Antidote:
Create a quiet and calm environment whenever possible. Use noise-canceling headphones or earplugs to help manage overwhelming sounds. Notice how they respond when exposed to varying noise levels. Be curious while always ensuring they have a quiet retreat available.
Make Lists
Issue:
When engaging with online content, some folks with autism may tend to create detailed lists summarizing the main points of videos or articles. This habit reflects their need to process and organize information clearly and systematically.
Antidote:
Encourage and appreciate their organized and detailed contributions. This habit can benefit others as well. Provide tools and platforms where they can share their summaries and insights, helping them feel valued and included in the community.
Final thoughts
What do you think of these traits? Understanding them can help us accommodate folks with autism.
Recognizing and respecting their unique ways of navigating the world can create more inclusive and supportive environments.
Small efforts can make a significant difference, whether providing a safe space for solitude, engaging with their questions, or supporting their passions. Empathy and patience can build a world where everyone feels understood and valued.
We need all sorts of brains for this moment in history.
Be Well, Stay Kind, and Godspeed.
