How Does Difficulty with Abstract Thinking Affect Storytelling in Autism?

PostedDecember 13, 2025

UpdatedDecember 13, 2025

ByMy Patient Advice

Author: Hannah Smith, MSc | Reviewed by: Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Abstract thinking, storytelling, and autism are closely linked. Individuals with autism often struggle with abstract thinking, which can impact their ability to create and understand stories. Storytelling requires imagination, connecting abstract ideas, and understanding emotions or motivations, which can be difficult for individuals who prefer to focus on concrete details. These challenges affect narrative skills and comprehension, making it harder to tell a compelling story or fully understand one.

The Influence of Abstract Thinking on Storytelling in Autism

Abstract thinking is essential for storytelling. Here’s how it impacts the ability to tell and understand stories:

Challenges with Imagination and Flexibility

Storytelling often requires creativity and abstract thinking. Individuals with autism may struggle with the flexibility needed to imagine new scenarios, making it difficult to develop a story that moves beyond literal events.

Struggles with Understanding Emotions and Relationships

Understanding the abstract emotions and relationships between characters is key to storytelling. Individuals with autism may focus on actions and facts, missing the deeper, emotional connections between characters.

Effective Strategies for Enhancing Storytelling in Autism

To improve storytelling and abstract thinking in autism, the following strategies can be helpful:

Visual Storytelling

Using visual aids like storyboards or graphic organisers can help individuals organise their thoughts and connect abstract ideas to concrete examples.

Fostering Imagination

Encouraging activities like story creation games or imaginative play can help develop the flexibility needed for abstract thinking and effective storytelling.

For more personalised support, consider visiting providers like Autism Detect for consultations on improving abstract thinking, storytelling, and autism.

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to Literal Thinking and Difficulty with Abstract Concepts.

Hannah Smith, MSc

Author

Hannah Smith is a clinical psychologist with a Master’s in Clinical Psychology and over three years of experience in behaviour therapy, special education, and inclusive practices. She specialises in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), and inclusive education strategies. Hannah has worked extensively with children and adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), ADHD, Down syndrome, and intellectual disabilities, delivering evidence-based interventions to support development, mental health, and 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.