How Does Difficulty with Abstract Concepts Impact Social Understanding in Autism?
Many autistic people experience challenges with abstract thinking, which can make social communication and empathy more complex. Abstract concepts are ideas that are not tangible, such as emotions, intentions, or social rules, and require us to interpret meaning beyond what is directly said. Research shows that neurological and cognitive differences in autism make this type of flexible thinking more demanding, influencing how social interactions are understood.
Literal Thinking and Concrete Language
According to the National Autistic Society, autistic people often process language literally. When someone says “I’m over the moon,” the phrase may be taken at face value rather than as an expression of happiness. This concrete way of interpreting information can make abstract or figurative communication, such as jokes, sarcasm, or metaphors, confusing and sometimes socially isolating.
The NICE guideline CG142 explains that adults with autism may show persistent difficulties interpreting social and emotional cues, especially when these cues are implied rather than explicit. Such differences do not reflect a lack of intelligence or empathy but rather a distinct neurological processing style that prioritises precision and clarity over assumption.
Cognitive and Neurological Mechanisms
A 2025 review on PubMed found that autistic individuals often display differences in theory of mind, or the ability to understand others’ perspectives, and in executive function, which involves organising and integrating information. These variations contribute to difficulty processing abstract social information such as intentions or emotions. Similarly, the Leicestershire Partnership NHS explains that autistic neurology often favours concrete thought, which can make nonverbal signals and figurative speech harder to decode.
In related research, Thurm et al. (2024) demonstrated that challenges with central coherence, or the ability to see the “big picture,” can make it harder to understand abstract social rules or integrate multiple social cues at once.
The Impact on Social Understanding
Abstract thinking helps people interpret others’ feelings, predict reactions, and navigate complex social norms. When this process feels unclear, autistic individuals may prefer straightforward communication and honesty, as highlighted by Autistica. These preferences can sometimes be misread as bluntness or disinterest, when in reality they reflect a deep commitment to truth and consistency.
Practical support such as visual aids, concrete language, and social story techniques can help bridge the gap between literal and abstract understanding, promoting mutual clarity and reducing social anxiety.
Takeaway
For autistic people, difficulty with abstract concepts stems from genuine neurological and cognitive differences, not a lack of emotional intelligence. According to NICE guidance and NHS communication advice, clear, concrete, and direct communication fosters better understanding and supports meaningful connection.
If you or your child are exploring signs of autism, including differences in abstract thinking or social understanding, you can arrange a private autism assessment online with Autism Detect. Their clinical team, rated “Good” by the CQC, provides comprehensive assessments for both adults and children to help you gain clarity and the right support.
