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.
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This SPARK Research Match report describes research on the special interests of autistic children and how these intense interests differ by gender.
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Julia knew her daughter had autism by the time the girl was only 1. How could she be so sure?
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Collecting science facts, flapping your hands, and being very sensitive to sound are all traits of autism. What ties them together?
Learn MoreResearchers 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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Special interests can offer people with autism opportunities to socialize and to highlight their strengths. These interests can sometimes even grow into a career.
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