Can You Be Autistic and Not Have a Special Interest? Understanding the Myths and Realities

The world of autism is full of unique experiences that often challenge common assumptions. A question many people ask is, can you be autistic and not have a special interest? Special interests are often seen as a key feature of autism, but not everyone on the spectrum experiences them the same way. Some may have broad interests, while others may not show an obvious passion at all. Understanding this helps break myths and shows the diversity of autistic experiences. By looking at research, personal stories, and developmental factors, we can better grasp the nuances of autism. This article explains that not having a special interest does not lessen or invalidate an autism diagnosis.

The Prevalence of Special Interests in Autism

Special interests are highly common in autism, yet they are not universal. Studies estimate that 75–90% of autistic individuals develop at least one special interest, with some research suggesting rates as high as 95%. These interests often emerge in childhood and can persist throughout life. For example, a survey of autistic youth aged 2 to 18 found that about three-quarters had a special interest, with many pursuing multiple topics simultaneously .

These interests serve as more than hobbies; they can provide emotional regulation, structure, and a source of joy. However, a notable minority may not exhibit clear, focused interests, illustrating the spectrum’s diversity. Recognizing this variation is crucial for avoiding one-size-fits-all assumptions about autistic behavior.

Understanding the Role of Special Interests

Special interests often contribute to identity formation, cognitive development, and social engagement. They allow individuals to explore their environment in predictable ways, reduce anxiety, and facilitate deep learning. These interests range from mainstream topics like animals, music, or sports to highly niche areas such as train schedules or astronomical data (Esquirol, 1827; Sukhareva, 1925).

Key Functions of Special Interests:

• Emotional regulation during stressful situations
  
  
• Social engagement and shared conversation starters
  
  
• Cognitive stimulation and skill-building
  
  
• Providing predictability and comfort

While special interests can be intensely absorbing, not all autistic individuals experience this level of focus. Some may engage with multiple areas more lightly, or find structure and joy in routines or broader interests rather than a single topic.

Gender Differences in Special Interests

Research indicates notable gender variations in how special interests manifest. Autistic males often gravitate toward systems, vehicles, technology, or mechanical objects (Kopp & Gillberg, 2011). Autistic females may show interests in socially accepted or creative domains like animals, literature, or arts. These differences can obscure recognition of autistic traits, as female interests may appear more conventional to outside observers (Gould & Ashton-Smith, 2011).

This variation underscores that the absence of a stereotypical special interest does not negate an autism diagnosis. The intensity and depth of engagement, rather than the topic itself, often distinguish special interests in autistic individuals.

Factors Influencing Special Interests

Several elements influence whether a person develops strong special interests:

• Sensory Preferences: Autistic individuals with heightened sensory sensitivity may pursue specific textures, sounds, or visual patterns. Conversely, some avoid sensory-rich experiences, reducing the likelihood of focused interests.
  
  
• Socialization Patterns: Special interests can serve as a communication tool. Those who struggle with social engagement may rely on routines or general preferences instead.
  
  
• Cognitive and Developmental Factors: Attention span, memory, and developmental experiences affect how interests emerge. Some may develop strong passions later in life or shift focus over time (Murray, 2017).
  
  
• Emotional Regulation: Interests can provide a calming effect and help manage stress or sensory overload.
  
  
• Environmental Exposure: Opportunities to explore books, media, hobbies, or technology can shape interest development.

These factors show why some autistic individuals might not develop a pronounced special interest. Their autism manifests differently, focusing on other coping mechanisms or sources of stimulation.

Autism Without a Special Interest

Autism is characterized by social communication differences, repetitive behaviors, and sensory sensitivities, not the presence of a special interest alone. Some individuals enjoy broader hobbies or engage in routine activities without one dominating their attention. For example:

• Playing casual sports without deep obsession
  
  
• Drawing or crafting across various themes without fixating on a specific subject
  
  
• Reading broadly without an all-consuming focus

Autistic individuals without defined special interests can still exhibit core autistic traits and experience the world in ways consistent with autism spectrum disorder. This challenges the assumption that special interests are a diagnostic necessity.

The Lifespan and Evolution of Special Interests

When present, special interests often evolve over time. They may begin as a fascination with an object in childhood and expand into deeper knowledge, sometimes lasting decades (Davidson & Henderson, 2010). The average number of special interests in autistic adults is reported as nine in some pilot studies, with a longevity averaging 13 years per interest.

However, these interests can fade, shift, or enter “in-between periods,” where focus temporarily decreases (Shawntistic, 2024). During these times, autistic individuals might rely on other routines or coping strategies, demonstrating that intensity fluctuates and absence does not negate autism.

Myths and Realities About Special Interests

Myth: Every autistic person has an intense, unusual interest.
Reality: Interests vary widely, from conventional hobbies to highly niche topics. Some may not display identifiable passions at all.

Myth: Special interests hinder socialization.
Reality: They can facilitate connections, providing shared conversation topics and communities of like-minded individuals. Research indicates that discussing special interests often improves social interaction and communication skills (Kopp & Gillberg, 2011).

Myth: Without a special interest, someone is “less autistic.”
Reality: Autism manifests differently in every individual. Broader interests, routines, and general curiosity are equally valid expressions of autistic experience.

Embracing Diversity and Individuality

Special interests are valuable, but their absence highlights the autism spectrum’s diversity. Autistic individuals may:

• Develop broader or multiple interests without intense focus
  
  
• Use routines or general preferences for comfort and regulation
  
  
• Find joy and learning through everyday activities instead of niche passions

Understanding these patterns fosters acceptance and personalized support. Recognizing that you can be autistic and not have a special interest allows society to move beyond stereotypes and appreciate each person’s unique profile.

Implications for Support and Education

While educators and professionals often integrate special interests into learning, it’s essential to avoid assuming they are universal. Support should reflect the individual’s unique traits:

• Encourage exploration without forcing a “special” passion
  
  
• Value broad interests and everyday learning
  
  
• Focus on routines, predictability, and personal coping strategies

This inclusive approach respects each autistic individual’s developmental path and strengths.

FAQ

1. Can an autistic adult develop a special interest later in life?

Yes. Some autistic adults may discover new passions or deepen existing interests in adulthood, reflecting ongoing personal growth (Murray, 2017).

2. Are special interests always intense or unusual?

Not necessarily. Interests can be conventional hobbies pursued with moderate focus. Intensity varies among individuals.

3. How do special interests impact mental health?

Engaging with special interests can reduce stress, improve mood, and provide emotional regulation, but absence doesn’t indicate poor mental health.

4. Can autistic individuals without a special interest still excel in a skill?

Absolutely. Many find joy and mastery through routines, work, or broad learning, not just narrow passions.

5. Does lacking a special interest affect an autism diagnosis?

No. Autism is diagnosed based on social communication differences, repetitive behaviors, and sensory processing, not solely on special interests.

Embracing Every Autistic Individual's Unique Path

Special interests are common in autism but do not define it. Achieve Better ABA supports autistic individuals in exploring their passions, whether they are narrow, broad, or even absent, while helping families and educators in North Carolina. Research shows many autistic people have special interests, but not all, highlighting the spectrum’s diversity (Baron-Cohen et al., 2009; Davidson & Henderson, 2010). 

Understanding this variety lets parents, teachers, and peers provide support that truly fits each person. Achieve Better ABA emphasizes that autism is made up of many traits, not just one behavior. Accepting this complexity helps challenge myths, broaden understanding, and encourage respect for each autistic individual. If you want guidance for an autism-friendly approach, reach out to us today. Our strategies are designed to honor every person’s unique journey while making learning and daily life more manageable.