The Positives of Autism
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is classified as a developmental disorder and can be seen by those who are unfamiliar as a roadblock to independence. While it may be easier to see the challenges associated with a diagnosis of autism, individuals with autism have many unique skills and abilities. In fact, autistic people excel at many things that neurotypical people don’t.
Understanding these is a great step toward getting rid of the stereotypes of autism. Let’s take a look at 6 hidden strengths of autism.
1. Enhanced Focus
Autistic people may have an increased ability to focus on one task at a time or multitask.
These skills can be beneficial in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields, where multitasking is often necessary. A recent University of Cambridge online study found that across all careers, people with autism are more likely to become scientists or engineers. Autistic people have found success in these fields because they often have unique perspectives that can lead to innovative solutions.
Additionally, this skill may benefit autistic people who are interested in music, art, or literature. You may find that autistic people like activities that require a lot of concentration, like puzzles or video games.
Focus is hard to come by in this day and age. With all the distractions around us, it’s challenging to stay on task. However, autistic people often have an unrivaled ability to focus, leading to great success in any field they pursue.
2. Imagination and Creativity
Autistic people may experience heightened creativity and imagination.
People with autism may see the world differently than those who are neurotypical. This can result in creative ideas and solutions.
Creativity is essential to success in any field. It is the ability to take an idea and turn it into a reality. Autistic people often have this creativity, and they can use it to achieve great things in their lives.
3. Superior Recall and Memory Abilities
In addition to having creative imaginations, people with autism often have superior recall and memory abilities. One study found that people with autism completed tests requiring visual reasoning and pattern recognition 40% faster than people without autism. This skill can be highly beneficial in law, where details are essential, or in careers where memorization is necessary.
For example, many autistic teens can remember every line of a song after hearing it once or twice. Autistic people also tend to have excellent sensory memories. Thus, they can accurately reflect smells, tastes, textures, and sounds.
Memory is critical to the shaping of character. Due to memory, we have reference to our past and can plan for our futures. Autistic people often have great memories, which can help them in any field they choose to pursue.
4. Superior Analytical Abilities
Autistic people often have superior analytical abilities. People with autism may think in a logically sequential way, which leads to quick decision-making. These thinkers can make decisions without the bias that prevents most neurotypicals from making impartial decisions.
People with autism can be excellent problem solvers due to an ability to think logically and figuratively. They can be highly effective at “thinking out of the box.”
The Cambridge researchers believe the findings support the notion that autistic traits are linked to “systems thinking,” which is why people working in high-tech have more autistic personality traits than the general population.
5. Positive Outlook on Life
Despite some challenges that autism may present, many autistic people have a positive outlook on life.
The key to success is often described as having a positive outlook on life. Autistic people often have this advantage without even trying to achieve it.
6. Dedicated Workers
According to a study by the National Autistic Society, people with autism tend to be conscientious and often very busy at their jobs. They thrive upon structure and routine. Careers that are able to embed structure and routine will greatly benefit from having an autistic person in that role.
How to Help Autistic People Thrive
Every person with autism has different strengths and needs. Services and accommodations needed can vary from individual to individual, so it is essential to know these strengths and needs so that autistic people can find activities and careers in which they will thrive.
Others can support this by helping autistic individuals find accommodations either in their educational curriculum or at work. They may require accommodations like assistive technology, a reduced workload, and frequent breaks. You can support an autistic person by advocating for their needs.
ABA Therapy—Evidence-Based Treatment for Autism.
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy has been shown to help people with autism enhance their natural skills while decreasing unwanted behavior that might interfere with their lives. It is the only evidence-based treatment for those with autism.
ABA Centers of America doesn’t believe in a “one size fits all” treatment program. We help autistic people utilize their strengths. Each treatment plan is personalized and includes goals that are important to the individual and to their families.
Get in touch with us for a free consultation!
