How Can Autism Influence the Use of Eye Contact? 

Autism and eye contact are often closely linked, as individuals on the autism spectrum may experience challenges with making and maintaining eye contact. This can impact how they communicate and engage socially. While eye contact is an essential part of typical communication, it may not come as naturally for those with autism. As a result, many individuals on the spectrum either avoid eye contact or have difficulty with it, which can create communication challenges in social interactions. 

In autism and eye contact, the avoidance or reduced use of eye contact may stem from sensory sensitivities or difficulty processing social cues. For some individuals, maintaining eye contact can be overwhelming or uncomfortable, leading to gaze avoidance. This can sometimes be misunderstood by others as a sign of disinterest or rudeness, but it is often a natural part of how someone with autism processes information. 

Common Effects of Autism and Eye Contact on Social Interaction 

Here are some common effects of autism and eye contact on social interaction, and how therapies can improve communication. 

Gaze Avoidance  

Many individuals with autism tend to avoid direct eye contact, as it may feel overwhelming or distracting. This avoidance can sometimes be misinterpreted by others as a lack of interest. Therapies like Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) can help teach appropriate eye contact and improve social engagement skills. 

Difficulty Maintaining Eye Contact  

Some individuals may make brief eye contact but struggle to maintain it for extended periods, which can hinder effective communication. Social skills training and other therapeutic interventions can support individuals in feeling more comfortable with eye contact during conversations. 

Visit providers like Autism Detect for personal consultations to learn more about autism and eye contact and how therapies can help improve gaze and reduce communication challenges. 

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to Nonverbal Communication Differences.

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.