Autism Awareness: Understanding Characteristics in Autistic Adults
“Autism is not a disease. Don’t try to cure us. Try to understand us.” – Brian R. King
Autism is often misunderstood as something that needs to be fixed or cured. However, many advocates and individuals on the spectrum highlight that autism is not an illness, but a different way of experiencing and interacting with the world.
This article sheds light on what autism is, its key characteristics in adults, and how an autism diagnosis can be empowering.
What Is Autism?
Autism is a neurodevelopmental disability that has its onset in childhood, but it is a lifelong condition that impacts the lives of adults as well. It is characterized by differences in social communication and the presence of repetitive behaviors or routines. Studies reveal that approximately 1 in 36 children have been identified with autism spectrum conditions (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2024).
The causes of autism can be attributed to genetics or prenatal factors, like distress during pregnancy, labor, and delivery, which directly influence how the baby’s brain develops, leading to brain differences (Cleveland Clinic, 2024). It is imperative to acknowledge and understand that autism is not a disease that needs to be fixed or cured; it’s a part of people’s identity and a different way of functioning. However, there are therapeutic options and community groups that can help autistic individuals navigate challenges in personal, social, and professional settings.
Characteristics of Autism in Adults
Understanding the traits of autism in adults helps build a more inclusive and empathetic society. Autism is a spectrum, meaning that autistic individuals can have a wide range of experiences and may require different levels of support.
Here are some key characteristics of autism in adults:
- Finding it challenging to understand social cues
- Difficulty understanding what other people are thinking
- Struggling with emotional regulation
- Difficulty engaging in social conversations
- Engaging in repetitive patterns, such as repeating certain movements, phrases, or routines.
- Needing consistency and structure in daily routines
- Having strong interests in certain themes and topics
- Experiencing sensory sensitivities, like heightened response to sound, smell, taste, etc.
Differences in Social Communication
Autistic adults may have diverse and different communication styles and patterns. Some autistic individuals may be very verbal and enjoy engaging in social conversations. Others may have difficulty regulating facial expressions, making eye contact, or following social cues like turn-taking in conversations. Some autistic individuals also like spending time alone and in their own company.
Recurring Patterns and Special Interests
Autistic adults thrive on consistency and structure. Changes to their routines, whether minor or major, can feel especially disruptive or challenging.
Stimming, engaging in repetitive behaviors like making sounds, arm flapping, or moving objects, helps autistic individuals comfort themselves, manage sensory overload, and reduce stress (Very Well Health, 2024).
Another common characteristic of autism includes having diverse interests and skills, for instance, art, science, and music. They may also prefer solitary activities over social interactions.
Many autistic individuals are sharp observers and possess outstanding memory skills. They may also have different ways of learning; many autistic individuals may prefer auditory and visual aids while learning.
Benefits of an Autism Diagnosis
Many autistic individuals advocate for the benefits of receiving an autism diagnosis. They have shared that an autism diagnosis has provided them with a lens to better understand their differences and celebrate their strengths.
It has also given them a sense of relief, solidarity, and validation. For many, it helps explain the challenges they’ve faced in traditional settings like school, social connections, and the workplace.
Furthermore, a diagnosis can open the door to helpful next steps. This might include accessing therapy or peer groups, exploring accommodations in college or the workplace, and applying for disability benefits. Most importantly, it can foster greater self-awareness and acceptance.
Embracing Autism With Understanding and Respect
“Autism is not a tragedy. Ignorance is a tragedy.” – Kerry Magro, an autistic speaker and advocate.
Autism should not be “fixed” or feared. It’s simply a different way of experiencing and understanding the world. We must endeavor to comprehend, embrace, and encourage autistic people in all aspects of life rather than attempting to cure them.
