Why People on the Autism Spectrum Might Seem to Know It All

One of the traits that most autistic individuals share is an almost perfect memory for specific bits of information. Take me, for instance, for a universe of knowledge, I may not have a thorough understanding, but I do know A LOT. This article aims to demonstrate the rationale behind this trait, rather than explain it in-depth.

The Narrow Range of Expertise

Autistic people tend to have a deep well of knowledge in the areas they are passionate about, but their expertise is highly specialized. In these narrow fields of interest, our knowledge is extensive. When it comes to our areas of interest, we are often the go-to experts, and if we assert that we are correct, it is likely because we are.

Let’s break it down: we don't know everything about everything, but within the confines of our specific interests, we have an encyclopedic knowledge base. We become obsessed with our hobbies, and as a result, we gain tremendous knowledge. But this doesn't mean we know it all; rather, it means we know a lot about one thing at the expense of other subjects.

The Self-Centered Perspective and Isolation

A significant factor leading to the belief of knowing it all is a combination of self-centeredness, isolation, and a lack of social interaction. Autistic individuals often struggle with social skills and can become self-centered as a result of constant interaction with themselves. This self-focused perspective can lead to feelings of rejection and inadequacy when others don’t want to be around them. To cope, some individuals might internalize negative feelings and develop a sense of superiority.

When you’re isolated, you naturally assume you are the center of the universe. Without constant exposure to others, it becomes easier to believe that you know everything. If you don’t interact with a wide range of people, you can easily miss the vast amount of knowledge others possess. This is a vicious cycle that can perpetuate the notion that you know it all.

Social and Cognitive Implications

Isolation and self-centeredness can lead to misunderstandings about the world and other people. This can result in an inflated sense of one's own intelligence and uniqueness. The cognitive rigidity that often accompanies autism can lead to a belief in one's own infallibility and logical superiority. As a result, some autistic individuals may become less open to diverse opinions, seeing their viewpoints as the ultimate truth. This can manifest in online communities where self-diagnosed individuals often claim superiority over neurotypicals, blaming emotional reactions and perceived dishonesty on these individuals, ostensibly fitting into a narrative of autistic superiority.

Self-Reflection and Growth

It is crucial for autistic individuals to recognize their own shortcomings and work on self-improvement. Just because you excel in one area doesn’t mean you are a master of all fields. Recognizing and admitting these limitations can lead to personal growth and a more balanced perspective on life. It is important to approach any kind of knowledge or expertise with a humble attitude, recognizing that there is always more to learn and different perspectives to consider.

The experience of living with autism, either diagnosed or undiagnosed, can provide a unique lens through which to view the world. It is important to acknowledge both the strengths and the challenges. Being honest about these challenges is a crucial step towards personal growth and self-improvement.