How do verbal vs non-verbal autistic individuals show insistence on sameness differently?

PostedDecember 10, 2025

UpdatedDecember 10, 2025

ByMy Patient Advice

Author: Beatrice Holloway, MSc | Reviewed by: Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

The distinction between verbal vs non-verbal autism is often reflected in how individuals demonstrate their need for routine and predictability. Both groups can experience strong reactions to change, but the way these reactions are communicated may look very different. Understanding verbal vs non-verbal autism in relation to insistence on sameness helps families and professionals support individuals more effectively.

Research suggests that insistence on sameness expression is strongly influenced by how someone communicates. A verbal child might argue or repeatedly ask questions when a routine is disrupted, while a non-verbal child may show their distress through behaviour such as withdrawal, crying, or repetitive movements. These communication differences in autism are not about the intensity of the feeling itself but about the method used to express it. Professionals also note that autism behavioural profiles vary widely, meaning no two individuals will respond in exactly the same way.

How it may appear in practice

Below are some common ways insistence on sameness shows up across different communication styles:

Verbal individuals

They may try to negotiate or insist verbally on routines, expressing frustration when plans change.

Non-verbal individuals

They might rely on gestures, body language, or behaviours such as meltdowns to communicate discomfort.

Shared experience

Regardless of language ability, both groups may rely on predictability as a way to manage stress and reduce anxiety.

Recognising these differences ensures support strategies are better tailored to each person’s needs.

Visit providers like Autism Detect for personal consultations and guidance.

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to Insistence on Sameness.

Beatrice Holloway, MSc

Author

Beatrice Holloway is a clinical psychologist with a Master’s in Clinical Psychology and a BS in Applied Psychology. She specialises in CBT, psychological testing, and applied behaviour therapy, working with children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), developmental delays, and learning disabilities, as well as adults with bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, anxiety, OCD, and substance use disorders. Holloway creates personalised treatment plans to support emotional regulation, social skills, and academic progress in children, and delivers evidence-based therapy to improve mental health and well-being across all ages.

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.