Not in the same way that we do. They can be obsessed, but typically that is the result of some underlying mental health issue anyways

8

Anyone can have something they’re passionate about. It’s the intensity and the effect it has on someone that I’d guess is different. An autistic person finds comfort in the routine and familiarity of a special interest. With NT people of course they still love but it’s different idk.

1

I’d say the intensity is the difference. I’m not saying NT people can’t have passions but every single time I say I like [thing] and they say “me too” it doesn’t take long for me to realize the intensity of my feelings towards it run so much deeper. I must know every detail while they’re content being a casual observer.

1

NT people fall in love which to me feels the same so maybe it’s that

1

not the point we fixate on things. for example i am autistic, my special interest my whole life has been sanrio/rushton dolls and my room is filled with it, even customized bed sheets with my favourite rushton dolls. my brother (neurotypical) is ‘obsessed’ with this band and has been for years, he goes to their concerts but doesn’t care to let it leak into his room or his personality or looks, i however have no control and without thinking let me fixations show through everything i always talk

1