Special interests are one of the most common characteristics of people with autism. Historically, some interventions for autism have tried to limit them or use them largely as a reward for good behavior. But many people in the autism community consider these interests to be an important strength and a way to relieve stress. Some even expand on them to create a successful career. Find out what researchers are learning from autistic individuals about this strength.
Browse Topics A-Z
Researchers wanted to learn the different ways that youth engage in their interests, and whether caregivers viewed these ways as helpful or not helpful. Learn more about the results.
Learn More
Erin is a mom on a mission. She wants to find out if her son has a genetic change, so she can better manage his health.
Learn More
Kaylee Lurvey may go years without saying a word, and then speak a complete sentence. Her family hopes researchers will discover ways to unlock speech and other skills in people like Kaylee.
Learn More
Dylan Robey loves insects, all of them, even the dreaded cockroach. Like many people with autism, Dylan has what researchers call a special interest, in his case, in bugs. Others might call it a passion for the unappreciated.
Learn More
Special interests can offer people with autism opportunities to socialize and to highlight their strengths. These interests can sometimes even grow into a career.
Learn More
Some researchers believe that conditions such as Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), anxiety disorder, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and depression are “under-recognized” in youth with autism, which, in turn, “hampers clinical care and treatment.” After all, how can you treat what you don’t diagnose?
Learn More
Some of a child’s early symptoms of autism may be among the most puzzling to parents: hand-flapping, rocking, lining up toys, or finding the whirling blades of a fan more interesting than the world around him.
Learn More