Why Might Autistic People Use Fewer Gestures When Communicating?

PostedDecember 4, 2025

UpdatedDecember 4, 2025

ByMy Patient Advice

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

Autism gestures often differ from those of neurotypical individuals, which can affect how people with autism communicate nonverbally. Many autistic individuals use fewer gestures, such as pointing, waving, or nodding, making their communication style distinct from others. This can lead to challenges in conveying emotions or intentions, as gestures play a key role in understanding social interactions.

The reasons behind fewer autism gestures are often related to how people on the spectrum process social signals and emotions. Some individuals may find it difficult to express themselves using physical gestures, which can feel uncomfortable or unnecessary. This is not a sign of disinterest, but rather a unique aspect of nonverbal behaviour in autism.

Common Causes of Fewer Autism Gestures in Communication Style

Here are some common causes of fewer autism gestures and how they affect nonverbal communication in social settings.

Difficulty with Social Cues

People with autism may struggle to interpret social cues, including when and how to use gestures. This difficulty can reduce their use of nonverbal communication in conversations. Speech and language therapies can support the development of appropriate gestures to enhance communication.

Sensory Sensitivities

Sensory issues are common in autism, and some individuals may feel overwhelmed by the physical act of making gestures, leading to a reduced use of them in communication. Therapies that focus on sensory integration can help individuals become more comfortable with physical communication.

Social Anxiety

The stress of social interactions can lead to hesitation in using autism gestures, as some individuals may feel unsure about how to express themselves physically.

Visit providers like Autism Detect for personal consultations to learn more about autism gestures and how they relate to communication style and nonverbal behaviour.

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.