People with autism tend to look for familiarity and a source of security. This is why they like to have plush friends with them.
It's common to see an adult with autism with their favorite plushie from childhood.
Although it may seem odd, the truth is that these toys bring emotional and psychological benefits to those on the spectrum.
Continue reading to find out why they're a favorite among autistic adults, and why they're good for them.
What makes stuffed animals so comforting for people with autism?
Autistic individuals tend to have intense interests. It's common to see them having a fixation on a specific object or topic.
Still, plushies seem to be very popular among most of them. Regardless of their particular tastes, most autistic adults enjoy having plushies.
Why is that?
Well, there are several reasons why they love them. Let's see:
Comfort and safety
If you ask a neurodivergent person why they like plush toys, they most likely will say, 'it brings me comfort'.
Sleeping with a plushie or hugging it is comforting for them.
This is because stuffed toys work as a calming tool during times of stress.
Anxiety relief
According to a study by Nimmo-Smith, adults with ASD (Autism Spectrum Disorder) tend to face significant levels of anxiety. Anxiety disorders are more prevalent among them than in neurotypical individuals.
That's why they're looking for strategies to help them feel better. They have found that plush companions are great for relieving anxiety.
No matter how they feel, holding a plushie in their arms will calm them down.
Sensory input
Autistic adults also face various sensory issues. Some textures may not be appealing; they may not want to be touched, and sometimes, they can even feel sensory overload.
In these cases, a plushie comes of great help. They offer tactile comfort that promotes relaxation. Besides, touching and feeling a soft texture is soothing.
This allows them to engage with their senses positively.
Not to mention, a plushie touches them exactly as much as they want to be touched.
Improve communication
Plushies can work as social props for adults with ASD. To give you an idea, an autistic adult can use a teddy bear in social situations, like starting conversations and interactions.
Of course, this depends on the level of autism. Consider that the communication skills among autistic individuals range widely.
In other cases, a plushie can enhance social interaction. Like being a topic of conversation. Or it can also be a way to make friends with others who have the same interests.
So, all this means that stuffed animals are good for autistic adults? Let's find out.
Benefits of stuffed animals for autistic individuals
Contrary to what many may think, plushies are great not only for autistic children but for adults too.
Here we have some of the benefits they offer:
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Stuffed toys remind them of childhood experiences. This provides a sense of familiarity and stability. Something that adults with ASD need.
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A plushie can help an autistic person reduce feelings of loneliness.
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With a stuffed animal, an adult with ASD can foster a sense of belonging and identity. This is because they're expressing themselves and their interests.
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Plushies are a source of joy for autistic adults. They enhance mental health and improve mood.
Misconceptions about plushies for autistic adults
Family members of autistic adults may not feel the same way about plushies as they do.
Having a loved one on the autism spectrum can be challenging.
They may see an adult with ASD sleeping with a teddy bear and think it's not normal. But this is because there is still a lot of criticism and misconceptions about it.
Neurotypical individuals may think that plushies are childish or immature. They may wonder, 'Is it normal for adults to be attached to stuffed animals?'
Yet, what they don't know is that plush toys fulfill many needs of autistic people.
A plushie can be a coping mechanism, a friend, a comfort object, and much more for them.
Overcoming social stigma
For many autistic individuals, expressing themselves can be difficult. And being observed makes it even harder.
Say, for example, a grown-up man having a strong attachment to his plushies. People are going to judge him.
This can lead to internalized stigma and feelings of shame. What's dangerous about this is that it can impact his mental health and promote isolation.
How can we avoid this?
It's necessary to spread awareness and education about the role of these inanimate objects for those on the autism spectrum.
We need to validate the use of comfort items, create supportive environments, and advocate for neurodiversity.
Comfort and support for adults with ASD
Living on the autism spectrum can be isolating. These individuals face many challenges and need all the tools they can get to overcome them.
This explains why they're so attached to plushies. They provide that sense of comfort they long for. Not only that, stuffed toys are a source of joy and provide sensory stimulation.
Still, it's necessary to overcome the stigma that surrounds autistic adults having plushies. Only this way, we can promote their well-being and foster a more inclusive society.
