How does autism influence making comparisons and deciding on purchases?

PostedDecember 23, 2025

UpdatedDecember 23, 2025

ByMy Patient Advice

Author: Lucia Alvarez, MSc | Reviewed by: Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Autistic people often experience decision-making and purchasing differently. According to NICE guidance, variations in cognitive style, sensory processing, and executive function can shape how choices are made, from comparing prices to deciding what feels “worth it.” Understanding these differences helps promote independence and confidence in everyday life.

Decision-making and comparison processing

Autistic adults tend to use analytical and detail-focused reasoning when comparing products or evaluating value. A 2023 PubMed study found that autistic participants made consistent, rational decisions and were less influenced by marketing or irrelevant details than neurotypical peers.

This logical, data-driven approach can be an advantage, but it may also make decisions slower or more effortful, particularly when many options are presented. Some people rely less on “gut feeling” and more on facts or fairness when deciding between items (PubMed 40087873).

Sensory and emotional influences

Shopping environments can feel overwhelming for autistic people due to noise, lighting, crowds, or time pressure. Sensory overload or anxiety may lead to “decision paralysis,” making it difficult to compare or commit to a choice. Executive functioning differences, such as challenges with flexible thinking or working memory, can also make it harder to plan or prioritise purchases (NHS advice on organisation and prioritising).

For some, deliberate, slower decision-making helps maintain control and avoid impulsive spending. Others may need practical supports to reduce stress in noisy or fast-paced shopping environments.

Evidence-informed supports

National Autistic Society resources recommend breaking complex purchasing decisions into smaller steps, such as comparing two items at a time, writing lists, or using visual guides. Price comparison websites, budgeting apps, or written checklists can simplify decisions and build confidence.

Autistic-friendly shops and customer services (some accredited through Autism Friendly Awards) offer calmer environments and clearer information displays. Staff training and reasonable adjustments, such as extra time or quiet hours, also make a difference.

For people needing behavioural or emotional regulation support around decision-making and planning, services like Theara Change provide structured coaching and therapy-based approaches to help strengthen executive function and self-confidence.

NHS and policy frameworks

NICE and NHS England recommend structured, step-by-step learning for functional life skills, including shopping and budgeting, as part of personalised care plans (NICE CG170). The UK national autism strategy also highlights accessible information, decision-making support, and financial independence as priorities for autistic adults.

Key takeaway

Autistic people often make thoughtful, fact-based decisions but may face challenges when choices are complex or environments are overstimulating. With calm settings, structured decision aids, and confidence-building support, shopping and money choices can become more manageable and more empowering.

Lucia Alvarez, MSc

Author

Lucia Alvarez is a clinical psychologist with a Master’s in Clinical Psychology and extensive experience providing evidence-based therapy and psychological assessment to children, adolescents, and adults. Skilled in CBT, DBT, and other therapeutic interventions, she has worked in hospital, community, and residential care settings. Her expertise includes grief counseling, anxiety management, and resilience-building, with a strong focus on creating safe, supportive environments to improve mental well-being.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the author's privacy.

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Reviewer

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez is a UK-trained physician with an MBBS and experience in general surgery, cardiology, internal medicine, gynecology, intensive care, and emergency medicine. She has managed critically ill patients, stabilised acute trauma cases, and provided comprehensive inpatient and outpatient care. In psychiatry, Dr. Fernandez has worked with psychotic, mood, anxiety, and substance use disorders, applying evidence-based approaches such as CBT, ACT, and mindfulness-based therapies. Her skills span patient assessment, treatment planning, and the integration of digital health solutions to support mental well-being.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the reviewer's privacy.