Understanding Autism and Special Interests (SPINs)

 Author: Rachael Ryland

For many autistic individuals, special interests are far more than hobbies. They are very intense, focused interests that can provide enjoyment, predictability, emotional regulation, and a way of engaging with the world.

A SPIN can involve any topic of interest; here is a short list of SPINs that are common within the autistic community:

• Trains, maps, or transport systems (These often involve patterns, structure, predictability, and detailed systems that can feel satisfying to explore and understand).
• Animals or nature (Animals can feel easier to understand than people sometimes, and nature can be peaceful, comforting, and fascinating to focus on). 

• Music, films, or books (Favourite songs, stories, or characters can bring excitement, familiarity, and a safe place to escape to, while also helping with emotional and sensory regulation during times of stress or overwhelm).
• History, science, or technology (These interests can feel exciting because there is so much depth to explore and understand, especially when things connect logically. Perfect for a monotropic attention style!
• Specific games, characters, or collections (Collecting information, memorising details, or immersing yourself in a favourite world can feel fun, predictable, and rewarding).

This list reflects common experiences but every autistic experience is different and every interest is valid! Importantly, special interests are not “wrong” or something that needs reducing. They are an important part of autistic identity and wellbeing.

Some interests last a lifetime, while others may change over time. The intensity and depth of knowledge associated with SPINs is often what makes them different from general interests.

More Than “Just an Hobby”

SPINs are very meaningful to an autistic person’s life. They are described as being part of who they are and a built-in coping strategy. 

A Source of Autistic Joy 

SPINs are often a source of genuine happiness and excitement. Autistic individuals may experience a deep connection with these passions and love to spend considerable time engaging in and learning about an interest.

Social Connection and Communication

Although autistic people are sometimes incorrectly assumed to lack social interest, SPINs can actually create powerful opportunities for connection. Talking about a special interest may also feel easier and more natural than open-ended social conversation. Joining communities rooted in a shared interest can be more socially predictable than other social scenarios. Many autistic people have found community through gaming that feels more accessible than in-person socialising.

It is important to remember that if an autistic person talks extensively about their interest, this is often a sign of enthusiasm, connection, and trust, not rudeness or self-centredness.

Emotional Regulation and Comfort

The world can often feel overwhelming, unpredictable, and exhausting for autistic individuals. A special interest can provide a sense of safety, familiarity, and calm. They create opportunities for rest and recovery after demanding situations / bad days. For some autistic people, talking about or engaging in their interest can feel grounding.

Deep Knowledge and Expertise

Many autistic individuals develop impressive levels of knowledge within their areas of interest. Their attention to detail, memory, and ability to focus deeply can lead to remarkable expertise.

These strengths are often highly valuable and can contribute to:

• Academic achievement.
• Creative talents.
• Career pathways.
• Problem-solving skills.
• Innovation and specialist knowledge.

Some autistic adults describe their SPINs as the foundation of their career or the reason they discovered a particular passion or talent.

When Special Interests Are Misunderstood

Unfortunately, SPINs are sometimes viewed negatively, particularly when they differ from what society considers “typical” for a person’s age.

Repeatedly dismissing a person’s interests can affect self-esteem and may communicate that the things bringing them joy are unacceptable. Discouraging or ignoring a child’s / young person’s special interest can lead to dysregulation and even masking.

Of course, balance is sometimes needed, particularly if an interest is preventing sleep, causing distress, or significantly limiting participation in daily life. Support should focus on helping build flexibility and wellbeing, not removing something that may be deeply meaningful to the individual.

Supporting Special Interests Positively

Parents, school staff, and professionals can support SPINs in positive and respectful ways.

Listen and Show Genuine Interest

Taking time to listen can help autistic individuals feel valued and understood. You do not need to become an expert yourself, but showing curiosity and respect can make a huge difference.

Use Interests as Vehicles for Learning

SPINs can be incredibly valuable in education and everyday life because interests can:

• Increase engagement in learning.
• Build confidence and self-esteem.
• Encourage persistence and concentration.
• Support skill development.
• Create meaningful opportunities for success.

A learner who struggles to engage in writing tasks, for example, may become highly motivated when writing about dinosaurs, gaming, space, or animals. This can increase engagement and reduce anxiety around learning.

Create Opportunities for Success

SPINs often highlight strengths and talents. Providing opportunities to share knowledge, lead activities, or showcase skills can build confidence and belonging.

Respect the Importance of the Interest

Even if the interest seems unusual to others, it may hold significant emotional importance for the autistic individual. Avoid labelling interests as “obsessions” in a negative way.

Special interests are not a quirk to grow out of or to be tolerated. They are often meaningful, joyful, and deeply important parts of autistic lives.