Hyperfocus, a hallmark of individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), is often underestimated in its complexity. Although it is often associated with intense dedication to topics of interest, this mechanism also plays a central role in adherence to rules and the pursuit of behaviors considered correct. When autistic individuals are raised in an environment structured by clear norms about what is right and wrong, this hyperfocus manifests itself as an impressive devotion to following these guidelines, even in the most subtle details of everyday life.
Research indicates that the brains of autistic individuals process information in a highly systematic way, prioritizing consistency and predictability in their interactions with the world. Rigorous adherence to rules, in this context, functions not only as a response to external expectations, but also as a way to reduce uncertainty and organize the reality around them. Neuroimaging studies suggest that this characteristic may be related to increased activity in the medial prefrontal cortex, a region involved in cognitive control and decision-making based on social norms (Chiu et al., 2008).
When raised in an environment that promotes clear ethical and behavioral values, autistic individuals often internalize these rules with a precision that can be considered exemplary. This commitment can extend beyond following explicit rules to include even the simplest details, such as arranging objects symmetrically or ensuring that an activity is completed without deviation. This precision reflects not only a desire to align with “right” but also a self-regulatory mechanism that provides comfort and emotional stability.
However, it is important to note that this unwavering dedication can, in some cases, lead to challenges. Rigidity in interpreting rules can create difficulties in more flexible or ambiguous social contexts, where implicit norms or sudden changes are frequent. Thus, while hyperfocus leads us to admire the autistic individual’s ability to commit to “right,” it also highlights the importance of balancing this trait with adaptive skills to deal with unpredictability.
Autistic individuals’ devotion to rules is not only a manifestation of hyperfocus, but also a testament to their ability to create order and meaning in an often chaotic world. This aspect of the autistic experience offers a rich perspective on the relationship between structure, morality, and neurodiversity, reinforcing the need for environments that value both consistency and flexibility.
References
• Chiu, PH, Kayali, MA, Kishida, KT, Tomlin, D., Klinger, LG, Klinger, MR, & Montague, PR (2008). Self responses along cingulate cortex reveal quantitative neural phenotype for high-functioning autism. Neuron.
• Hill, E. L., & Frith, U. (2003). Understanding autism: Insights from mind and brain. Philosophical Transactions of the Royal Society of London. Series B: Biological Sciences.
• Pellicano, E., & Burr, D. (2012). When the world becomes ‘too real’: A Bayesian explanation of autistic perception. Trends in Cognitive Sciences.
Dr. Fabiano de Abreu Agrela Rodrigues MRSB holds a post-PhD in Neuroscience and is an elected member of Sigma Xi – The Scientific Research Honor Society (more than 200 members of Sigma Xi have received the Nobel Prize), as well as being a member of the Society for Neuroscience in the United States, the Royal Society of Biology and The Royal Society of Medicine in the United Kingdom, the European Society of Human Genetics in Vienna, Austria, and the APA – American Philosophical Association in the United States. He holds a Master’s degree in Psychology and a Bachelor’s degree in History and Biology. He is also a Technologist in Anthropology and Philosophy, with several national and international degrees in Neuroscience and Neuropsychology. Dr. Fabiano is a member of prestigious high IQ societies, including Mensa International, Intertel, ISPE High IQ Society, Triple Nine Society, ISI-Society, and HELLIQ Society High IQ. He is the author of more than 300 scientific studies and 30 books. He is currently a visiting professor at PUCRS in Brazil, UNIFRANZ in Bolivia and Santander in Mexico. He also serves as Director of CPAH – Centro de Pesquisa e Análises Heráclito and is the creator of the GIP project, which estimates IQ through the analysis of genetic intelligence. Dr. Fabiano is also a registered journalist, having his name included in the book of records for achieving four records, one of which is for being the greatest creator of characters in the history of the press.