Many autistic people have a highly focused level of interest in particular topics. Some special interests begin in childhood, but some are picked up later in life. These interests can vary, for example, from a TV show, country or game to a type of animal, machine or a person. They often bring autistic people much joy and can be a positive influence on the rest of their lives - helping to develop friendships, determining what they might study or focusing their career choice.

The interest can: 

• provide structure, order and predictability, and help people manage the uncertainties of daily life 
• give someone a way to start conversations and feel more self-assured in social situations 
• help someone to relax and feel happy

As a result of their special interests, strong focus, and perseverance, autistic individuals can have encyclopaedic knowledge in their chosen area. Their particular, and often unique ways of thinking, combined with their fixations, result in many autistic people being considered experts in their field. In addition, many autistic people often report excellent memories for events, facts and figures, as well as excellent rote memory skills. This however, can be a cause of difficulty, where, with such an abundant wealth of information, a person may also become overwhelmed by facts, finding it hard to work out what information to share, and how much to share.

Autistic people often report that the pursuit of interests is fundamental to their wellbeing and happiness. However, it is when the interest becomes all encompassing that it may become a problem for the person and those around them. Such as interfering with day-to-day life, limiting other opportunities, and unable to stop without distress.