The mention of autism, considering it is a social and communication disorder, can often bring one to think of introverted people. It could be that an autistic person wants alone time, has social anxiety that gets in the way, and interacts with others less.
However, autism is a spectrum. Just like neurotypical people, autistic individuals may possess a range of personality characteristics, including being an extrovert or being more on the introverted side.
Let’s explore extrovert autism traits, focusing on the differences and challenges associated with an autistic extrovert.
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What is extroversion?
Extroversion is a personality trait in which a person may prefer high social engagement, strong energy levels, and a tendency to seek out and enjoy company.
Extroverts often gain energy from social interactions and typically enjoy engaging in conversations, social events, and spending time with others. Examples of extroverted behavior include being talkative, assertive, and enthusiastic in social situations.
Extroversion and autism
It is untrue to think or say that autistic people are never extroverted. Extroverted autistics may seek out social interactions and thrive in their environment, even though they might go about them differently.
People, more often than not, think many autistic people like to isolate themselves, which is not always the case. Autistic extroverts can be very sociable. They can enjoy parties, gatherings, or other activities related to socialization.
Common traits of autistic extroverts
An autistic extrovert may have the typical features of neurotypical extroverts, such as a passion for socializing, a desire to join conversations, and a preference for a stimulating environment.
They may have a talent for making friends and enjoy community involvement, increasing personal life satisfaction.
However, their way of communication and sensory processing makes a difference in social interaction.
For example, an extroverted autistic person may enjoy talking about their special interest for long periods and at times, even overwhelm and trigger negative reactions from neurotypical people. This can sometimes be to the point of getting into others’ personal space.
They may also seek sensory stimulation in social environments, such as by enjoying loud music or vibrant settings.
Common challenges of extroverted autistic individuals
Even though many love social interaction, some complications can arise with social abilities for extroverted autistic individuals in various social situations.
Sensory problems may complicate socializing. For example, noisy locations or crowded areas can present some difficulty.
Another struggle autistic people may have is difficulties with communication. This can include not understanding social cues or body expressions.
Management strategies for such challenges can be:
- Sensory tools: Using noise-canceling headphones or fidget toys to modulate sensory overload.
- Social skills training: Participating in programs that teach social cues and body language use.
- Understanding environments: Searching for support-based social groups and settings that are very tolerant of autistic traits.
Autism manifests itself in many different ways
Inclusion of diversity and acceptance of the autism spectrum are necessary.
Extroverted autistic individuals bring other strengths into social communication and can work in different social environments with appropriate support.
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It means one should understand that there is no particular mold for autism and what an autistic person’s social engagement is like. Extroverted autistic people just prove this diversity.
FAQs
Q: Can autistic people be extroverted?
A: Yes, people with an autism diagnosis can indeed be extroverted. This means that they could like and search for social environments; however, they may deal with them in another way.
Q: Can you be autistic and sociable?
A: Many autistic people enjoy the company of others and are sociable, although they may have different ways of doing things.
Q: Are extroverts ever shy?
A: Yes, an extrovert can shy away from some types of social interaction, particularly the unfamiliar. Shyness does not exclude a person from being an extrovert.
Q: What is often mistaken for autism?
A: ADHD, anxiety disorders, and sensory processing disorders can be mistaken for autism when, at the core, they are different, only similar in traits.
References
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Kojovic N, Ben Hadid L, Franchini M, Schaer M. Sensory Processing Issues and Their Association with Social Difficulties in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders. J Clin Med. 2019 Sep 20;8(10):1508. doi: 10.3390/jcm8101508. PMID: 31547076; PMCID: PMC6833094.
Pfeiffer BA, Koenig K, Kinnealey M, Sheppard M, Henderson L. Effectiveness of sensory integration interventions in children with autism spectrum disorders: a pilot study. Am J Occup Ther. 2011 Jan-Feb;65(1):76-85. doi: 10.5014/ajot.2011.09205. PMID: 21309374; PMCID: PMC3708964.
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Schriber RA, Robins RW, Solomon M. Personality and self-insight in individuals with autism spectrum disorder. J Pers Soc Psychol. 2014 Jan;106(1):112-30. doi: 10.1037/a0034950. PMID: 24377361; PMCID: PMC4122539.
van Laarhoven, T., Bögels, S., Vroomen, J., & Swerts, M. (2023). Zooming on the spectrum: Exploring the relationship between Zoom-fatigue, autistic traits and sensory sensitivity. Poster session presented at International Society for Autism Research (INSAR) 22nd annual meeting, Stockholm, Sweden.
