The propensity of autistic people to develop strong beliefs — and, in some cases, to adhere to fixed ideas or specific systems of thought — can be understood from several particularities in brain functioning and in the cognitive processes characteristic of autism.
Here are some key points that explain this bias, in light of what we know about the autistic brain and behavior:
1. Search for Patterns and Rigid Structure:
People with autism tend to have a strong desire for order, routine, and predictability. The autistic brain processes information in a way that seeks clear, predictable patterns, leading to an interpretation of the world that is less based on ambiguity. This cognitive style can make fixed beliefs or structured thought systems, which offer “closed” and secure explanations of the world, particularly appealing, as they provide “order” to reality.
2. Reward System and Fixation on Specific Interests:
Autism neuroscience suggests that the reward system (linked to dopamine) in the autistic brain may work differently. For many autistics, deep and specific interests are a source of great pleasure and fulfillment. Similarly, adhering to a belief or concept that resonates with them can generate a strong sense of purpose and belonging. This process of “sticking” to a theme, belief or system can engage the reward system, cementing the belief.
3. Sensory Processing and Stimuli:
People with autism often process stimuli intensely, which can cause sensory and emotional overload. Beliefs can act as a mental “anchor point,” providing a sense of security amidst the complexity of the world. In addition, this differentiated sensory processing influences the way new information is received and interpreted, sometimes leading to “resistance” to ideas that challenge previously established beliefs.
4. Literal and Concrete Thinking:
The literal and concrete thinking that is common in autism can affect the way abstract concepts and contradictory information are processed. In many cases, beliefs that offer direct and logical explanations of the world are more compatible with the autistic way of thinking. This can make the autistic person adopt certain beliefs in a more stable way that is less subject to change, since abstract or paradoxical beliefs can cause discomfort and difficulty in interpretation.
5. Differences in Theory of Mind and Cognitive Empathy:
Theory of mind—the ability to understand that other people have different thoughts, beliefs, and perspectives—may be less developed in some autistic people. This factor, in some cases, causes the autistic person to interpret their beliefs as objective truths, since the difference in perspective may not be so obvious to them. This difference in theory of mind can favor the creation of strong beliefs that do not require external validation to be sustained.
6. Difference in Integration of Neural Networks:
Neuroimaging studies indicate that neural networks for integrating information, such as the default mode network and the salience network, may operate differently in the autistic brain. This may impact the way ideas, values, and external information are processed, leading the individual to hold beliefs in a way that is less influenced by social or conventional pressures and more guided by their own internal perception.
In short, the propensity of autistic people to develop strong beliefs is rooted in a set of neurobiological and cognitive characteristics that promote the search for structure, predictability and consistency. These beliefs, which offer stability in a sensory and socially complex world, may represent for them a way of organizing experience and finding meaning.
