Persons with autism spectrum disorder reported higher interests in systemizing areas, more particular interests, and a greater overall number of interests than neurotypical individuals.
A quantitative examination of forum postings indicated statistically significant differences between the diagnostic groups. Further analysis suggested that these trends were evident across the entire spectrum of persons with autism, including those on the low end of the ability scale.
These findings indicate that people with autism may be as interested in various topics as their neurotypical peers, but they tend to focus on specific topics that are relevant to them. This seems like a good thing for people with autism who may find it difficult to concentrate on one topic for long enough to become an expert on it.
It also suggests that there is not one right way for someone on the autism spectrum to engage with the world. While some people with autism may prefer to work with numbers rather than pictures or words, others may find this approach overwhelming. It's important that we as a society don't force anyone on the autism spectrum to participate in activities they find stressful or inappropriate. Let them pursue their special interests while making efforts to support them when they encounter problems engaging with other people.
Individuals with autism spectrum condition typically acquire special interests, which manifest as an intense attention on certain areas. Neurotypical people have specific interests, which typically take the shape of hobbies. For example, someone with an interest in music might want to listen to only that genre of music. They may also have preferences when it comes to artists or types of instruments. These interests usually don't affect anyone else and don't change much as they get older.
People with autism tend to focus on one aspect of a subject, such as mechanics for an individual who likes fixing things up. They may have problems relating aspects together, so their understanding is limited. For example, if someone with autism tries to fix something that isn't working, they might think that if they put it back together then it will work properly.
There are several factors that may cause individuals with autism to have special interests. Some possible causes include: fascination with lights, sounds, numbers, patterns, or certain objects (such as trains or trucks); need for routine and structure; sensitivity to noise, touch, taste, or smell; desire to help others; or obsession with something painful such as needles or knives. No single reason can explain all cases of autism. The cause is often unknown.
The most common symptoms of autism are changes in behavior and social interaction.
How Autistic People Can Develop Age-Appropriate Interests
Autism has a strong genetic foundation, however the genetics of autism are complicated, and it is uncertain whether autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is explained more by multigene interactions or uncommon mutations with significant consequences. Recent studies have identified several genes that appear to increase a person's risk of developing ASD. These include genes involved in brain development, such as SH3GL1 and CNTNAP2, and others involved in communication between neurons, such as RELN and NRXN.
Reliable information about the genetic basis of autism is important for identifying individuals who may be at increased risk for developing the condition and for developing treatments that are based on an understanding of its underlying biology. Currently available data indicate that many cases of ASD may be due to multiple different genes with small effects. It is also possible that some cases of ASD may be caused by rare mutations in single genes that result in severe developmental problems.
Studies have shown that children of people with autism have a higher than expected rate of developing the condition themselves. This suggests that autism is not just a random occurrence but that there is likely something about the nature of the gene(s) responsible that makes them trigger disease only under certain conditions. The reasons for this are not clear but might be related to differences in how the genes affect cells or organs between people who develop the condition and those who do not.
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