Why do Autistic People LOVE Pokémon?
Introduction
Autism is a neurological condition that affects the way a person communicates, interacts, and behaves. It is a complex disorder that affects nearly 1 in 59 children in the United States. It is characterized by social deficits, communication difficulties, and restricted interests. While autism is a highly heterogeneous condition, it is estimated that 1 out of every 5–10 autistic people have an affinity for Pokémon. Pokémon, short for “pocket monsters,” is a global phenomenon. It is a media franchise created by Satoshi Tajiri in 1995, and consists of a variety of media, including anime, manga, games, trading cards, and toys. As of 2021, the franchise’s gross revenue is estimated to be over $90 billion. Different people have different reasons for loving Pokémon. For autistic people, however, the connection is especially profound. This article will explore the unique bond between autism and Pokémon, why autistic people love Pokémon, and how it has helped autistic people in different ways.
What is Autism?
Autism is a complex neurobehavioral disorder characterized by difficulty in communication, social interactions, and restricted and repetitive behaviors. Autism is a spectrum disorder, meaning the characteristics and severity of the condition vary greatly from person to person. Common symptoms of autism include difficulty with social interaction, difficulty with verbal and nonverbal communication, restricted and repetitive behaviors and interests, hypersensitivity to sensory input, and difficulty with social imagination. Diagnosis of autism typically includes an in-depth evaluation by a multidisciplinary team that may include a psychologist, neurologist, psychiatrist, speech-language pathologist, occupational therapist, and other professionals. With appropriate early intervention and support, individuals with autism can lead fulfilling and successful lives.
