Core Traits Considered in Autism

When professionals assess someone for autism, they look for certain lifelong traits that mark clear differences from non-autistic ways of thinking and behaving. These are not temporary habits but consistent patterns in how a person communicates, interacts, and experiences the world.

I take a neuroaffirmative approach to autism assessments and post-diagnostic support. What this means is, my assessments look for differences rather than deficits, and strengths as well as challenges. 

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Communication Differences
For people who are autistic but ‘high functioning’, communication differences are often much more subtle, since many people learn to ‘mask’ differences by imitating others. This is why an autism assessment focuses much more on what people tell me rather than necessarily what I observe. For such individuals, communication differences may include a preference for purposeful or focused conversation rather than ‘chit chat’, use of less than typically expected eye contact or discomfort with it, a need for others to be clear and explicit. A particular strength is that many autistic individuals have a high level of honesty, can be clear and direct, and can be good communicators in more familiar settings with the correct adaptations. 

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Behaviour and Interests
sometimes label these differences as “restricted or repetitive behaviours and interests,” but many autistic people see them as meaningful and positive parts of who they are. Activities like hand-flapping, rocking, or listening to the same song repeatedly can serve as self-soothing strategies, often called “stimming.” Likewise, having a strong focus on particular hobbies, subjects, or routines can bring comfort, stability, and deep expertise. While professionals may note these patterns as impacting upon daily life, within the autistic community they are often recognised as valuable tools for wellbeing.

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Sensory Processing
Many autistic people experience the senses more intensely or sometimes less intensely than others. Everyday sights, sounds, textures, or smells might feel overwhelming, while in other cases they may barely register. Sensory responses can vary depending on the environment or emotional state, and they often influence behaviour. For example, avoiding bright lights or loud noises, or seeking calming sensory input like weighted blankets or repetitive movement. Though technically grouped under behavioural patterns in diagnostic criteria, sensory differences often play a major role in shaping autistic experiences. However, the absence of sensory differences does not mean someone is not autistic, as it is not an essential criterion.