Autism is a spectrum, not a one-size-fits-all condition. The traits associated with autism can vary widely from person to person, and many individuals may not fit into conventional stereotypes. One way to understand the range of autistic experiences is by looking at a wide array of common traits that are often seen in autistic individuals. Below is a deeper look at each trait listed in the “Autistic Traits Bingo” image, offering insights into what each one means and why it matters.
Dislikes Eye-Contact
Many autistic individuals find eye contact overwhelming or distracting. For some, it can feel too intense, while others simply process communication more effectively without it. Avoiding eye contact does not equate to disinterest or dishonesty.
Has a Special Interest
Special interests are deep, passionate areas of focus. These interests can be long-term or change over time and are often a source of joy, comfort, and expertise. They’re more than hobbies—they’re a key part of self-expression.
Masks
Masking is the act of hiding or suppressing natural autistic behaviors to fit in socially. It often involves mimicking social cues, rehearsing conversations, or forcing oneself to appear “normal.” While masking can help navigate social situations, it is mentally and emotionally exhausting.
Animals > Humans
Some autistic individuals feel a stronger connection to animals than people. Animals provide non-judgmental companionship, predictable behavior, and sensory comfort, making them easier to interact with than humans in many cases.
Executive Functioning Difficulties
Executive functioning includes skills like organization, time management, task initiation, and emotional regulation. Many autistic people struggle with these skills, which can make daily tasks feel overwhelming or disjointed.
Co-occurring Condition(s)
Autistic individuals often have co-occurring diagnoses such as ADHD, anxiety disorders, sensory processing disorder, or learning disabilities. These additional conditions can complicate diagnosis and support.
Hard Time Identifying Own/Others’ Emotions
This is often called alexithymia. It can make it difficult to recognize and describe one’s own emotions or understand the emotions of others. This does not mean a lack of feeling, but rather a different way of processing emotional information.
Has Anxiety/Depression
Due to societal pressure, sensory overload, and misunderstanding, autistic people are more prone to anxiety and depression. These conditions are not inherent to autism itself, but often develop from the challenges of living in an unaccommodating world.
Meltdowns When Get Home
After spending the day masking or coping with sensory and social demands, many autistic individuals experience meltdowns in the safety of home. This is not misbehavior—it’s a release of built-up emotional or sensory stress.
Difficulty Keeping Friends
While many autistic individuals want friendships, navigating the social norms required to maintain them can be confusing or draining. Miscommunication, sensory challenges, and social burnout often contribute to difficulties.
Literal Thinker
Autistic people often interpret language literally. This means they may take phrases at face value and find figurative language, sarcasm, or jokes hard to decode. Clear and direct communication is usually best.
Sarcastic
Interestingly, some autistic individuals do understand and enjoy sarcasm—especially when it’s used predictably or as a form of self-expression. Like all traits, this varies from person to person.
Clothing Sensitivities
Tags, seams, textures, and tightness can be intensely uncomfortable. Sensory sensitivities often mean autistic people prefer specific fabrics, loose fits, or repetitive clothing choices for comfort.
High Empathy
Contrary to stereotypes, many autistic individuals feel emotions very deeply and are highly empathetic. However, they may express empathy in nontraditional ways or struggle to show it outwardly due to communication differences.
Was Misdiagnosed
Especially common among women, nonbinary individuals, and people of color, misdiagnosis is frequent in autism. People may be diagnosed with anxiety, bipolar disorder, or borderline personality disorder before autism is correctly identified.
“Shy” or “Quiet”
In childhood or social settings, autistic individuals are often labeled as shy or quiet. These labels can mask deeper communication differences or social processing needs that go unrecognized for years.
Final Thoughts
Autism isn’t defined by one or two traits—it’s an interconnected set of experiences that shape how a person sees and interacts with the world. Recognizing these traits helps build compassion, create better support systems, and shift the narrative from pathology to understanding. The goal is not to fix autistic individuals, but to accept and embrace their differences while making society more inclusive for everyone.
If someone resonates with several of these traits, it may be worth exploring further with a healthcare professional familiar with neurodivergent presentations.
