How does stigma around autism impact the ability to make friends? 

Stigma around autism can limit friendship opportunities long before a conversation begins. According to NICE guidance, autistic people face higher risks of social exclusion, misunderstanding and difficulty sustaining relationships, much of which comes not from autism itself, but from how others perceive it. When peers, colleagues, or classmates misunderstand autistic communication or behaviour, it can shape first impressions, reduce social confidence, and create barriers to forming genuine connections. 

Misunderstanding and negative assumptions 

Stigma often appears in the form of misinterpretation: differences in tone, eye contact or expression may be wrongly read as rudeness, disinterest or aloofness. The National Autistic Society notes that these misunderstandings can lead to rejection, reduced trust and friendship breakdowns, especially when others rely heavily on unstated social rules or sarcasm. NHS guidance also highlights that bullying and exclusion frequently stem from these misread cues rather than from a lack of social motivation in autistic people. 

Fear of rejection and social withdrawal 

Repeated experiences of being judged or misunderstood can lead to heightened social anxiety. Evidence from Autistica shows that stigma contributes directly to avoidance, loneliness and self-protective withdrawal. Many autistic adults report being cautious about approaching new people or joining groups because they anticipate negative reactions or feel they must hide parts of themselves to be accepted. 

First-impression bias reduces opportunities 

A systematic review on first impressions found that non-autistic observers often form less favourable impressions of autistic individuals based on brief interactions, as shown in First Impressions Towards Autistic People: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Studies show that when people lack autism awareness, visible communication differences are quickly interpreted negatively, reducing willingness to start conversations or continue social contact, as demonstrated in Neurotypical peers are less willing to interact with those with ASD This early bias can significantly limit the number of potential friendships available. 

Pressure to mask and its emotional cost 

Stigma often drives autistic people to mask, consciously hiding autistic traits or imitating non-autistic behaviour to avoid judgement. Research on camouflaging shows that while masking may help someone fit in initially, it increases stress, anxiety, and emotional exhaustion over time, making friendships harder to sustain, as shown in Camouflaging in autism: A systematic review Relationships formed under pressure to perform can feel less authentic and more draining. 

Impact on wellbeing and belonging 

A systematic review on loneliness in autistic adults found that stigma, exclusion, and misunderstanding are major contributors to chronic loneliness and poorer mental health. NHS England emphasises that inclusive attitudes, adjusted communication and sensory-aware environments help reduce this harm, creating conditions where friendships can grow more naturally. 

What helps 

Across NICE, NHS and charity guidance, the most effective ways to counter stigma and support friendships include: 

• clear, direct communication 

• reasonable adjustments for sensory or communication needs 

• peer education to build understanding 

• acceptance-focused environments 

• opportunities for autistic and non-autistic people to learn each other’s communication styles 

These changes reduce misunderstandings and encourage meaningful, respectful friendships. 

Takeaway 

Stigma around autism affects the ability to make friends by fuelling misinterpretation, exclusion and anxiety. But when people understand autism and adjust their expectations and communication, autistic individuals can form friendships that are stronger, more authentic and far more sustainable.