Can an autistic person have a “normal” level of interest in a topic?
Or are they obsessive with ALL their hobbies and passions?
The concept of special interests very much intrigues me.
As an officially diagnosed Autistic, I recognize that among all the topics and items I’ve ever found interesting throughout my life since childhood – some stand out in a unique way. These were/are my special interests or hyperfixations.
But I’ve also had and still have many strong interests that wouldn’t fall under the category of special, hyperfixation or obsessive.
These include former special interests that are now downgraded to “regular level” interests.
In short, an autistic person can have a number of interests that are NOT ultra-focuses, hyperfixations or obsessions.
For example, for years I’ve held a strong interest in crime scene investigation and have watched nearly every episode of “Forensic Files.”
I faithfully watch the ID Channel (true crime). I can rattle off all sorts of mistakes to avoid if one wants to get away with a homicide.
I can talk at length about specific cases as well as general concepts.
Despite my fascination, true crime isn’t and never was a special interest.
Many fans of true crime are neurotypicals.
I also have a strong interest in animal behavior in the wild and enjoy watching shows about the lives of big cats, wolves and bears.
It’s a “normal level” interest rather than a hyperfixation.
So just because someone’s autistic doesn’t mean that every single one of their interests, hobbies or passions falls under the category of infatuation or obsession.
I absolutely love having houseplants. I do believe that between the ages of 11 and 13, this bordered on special interest grade, but as an adult – with the means to buy as many plants as I so desire – this passion is no more a special interest than is my NT sister’s passion for orchards.
I’m particularly passionate about cultivating the species of Kalanchoe known as “mother of thousands.”
It’s a hobby no more obsessive than that of any NT who fills their home with these same plants.
I’m utterly intrigued by the possibility of extraterrestrial life. So are many NTs.
This is yet another example of a typical-level interest of mine even though I’m on the Spectrum.
In summary, you should not assume that every single hobby, passion or topic of interest that an Autistic has is of an obsessive or overly-fixated level.
Even if they’re very good at it, such as crocheting, painting or operating drones.
For additional information on special interests vs. normal interests, check out the article below!
Autistic Special Interest vs. Neurotypical Hobby: the Difference?
Lorra Garrick has been covering medical and fitness topics for many years, having written thousands of articles for print magazines and websites, including as a ghostwriter. She’s also a former ACE-certified personal trainer. In 2022 she received a diagnosis of Level 1 Autism Spectrum Disorder and subsequently has developed an intense interest in ASD.
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