Strength of the Autistic

While autism can come with many challenges for daily living, it also presents a myriad of unique strengths and skills. The strengths below reflect patterns of the skills that individuals with autism can learn. However, it is important to remember that each person with autism is unique. Their strengths, challenges, and day-to-day interactions may vary widely. As the saying goes, “If you’ve met one person with autism...you’ve met one person with autism”. Learning about and designing treatments for people with autism from a strengths-based perspective will lead to more effective interventions, stronger relationships, and a greater understanding. 

• Strong Focus

  • Can concentrate for long periods of time, particularly on areas of interest

  • Ability or preference for spending time alone

  • Resilience, even in the face of setbacks

• Attention to Detail

  • Can notice small details of an idea, theory, number pattern, interaction, film, object, or image

  • Ability to perform detailed repetitive tasks with accuracy

• Unique Intelligence

  • Average to very high intelligence

  • Broad skill sets*

  • Some children with autism learn how to read as young as age 2

  • Self-motivated, independent learners

  • Ability to remember large amounts of information, particularly about areas of interest

  • Strong visual processing abilities

• Desire to Connect

  • Speak plainly and honestly

  • Tendency to follow rules

  • Express caring in unique ways

  • Accept imperfections in others

  • Loyal

  • Passionate advocates for justice

  • Work hard to learn social skills that don’t come naturally

• Creative

  • Can come up with “out-of-the-box” solutions and ideas

Do any of these strengths describe someone on the Spectrum that you know? As parents, practitioners, and therapists, we tend to focus on remediating challenging behaviors instead of developing strengths. However, for many of us, our greatest weaknesses can be our greatest strengths if nurtured correctly. Using strengths as a starting place can help us design environments where everyone can thrive, where challenges can be mitigated, and strengths can shine. 

*Footnote: In fact, recent studies indicate that people with autism that were previously thought to have low intelligence may actually have much broader skill sets. Researchers are working to develop testing that allows them to show their abilities more accurately. Read more about it here