How can peer relationships be developed in individuals with autism?

PostedDecember 2, 2025

UpdatedDecember 2, 2025

ByMy Patient Advice

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

Autism and peer relationships often follow a different rhythm: one that values honesty, shared interests, and structure over spontaneity. Developing autism and peer relationships takes time, but with the right support, individuals on the spectrum can form deep and lasting bonds.

Key to this process is creating safe opportunities for meaningful social connections. This means reducing pressure and providing predictable environments where trust can grow such as interest-based clubs, structured group activities, or classroom buddy systems. Rather than focusing solely on eye contact or small talk, the emphasis should be on friendship building through shared goals and mutual respect. Encouraging social engagement in these settings gives autistic individuals the space to practise skills, explore emotions, and develop a sense of belonging without masking who they are.

Where Progress Begins

These small shifts can make a big difference in peer relationship development:

Shared interest spaces

When conversation starts around a mutual passion like gaming, art, or science, it becomes easier to connect authentically.

Guided interaction support

Adult facilitators or peer mentors can offer gentle prompts to keep conversations going or navigate social hiccups.

Celebrating individuality

Highlighting strengths, rather than forcing conformity, creates environments where all social styles are valid.

Friendship isn’t about fitting in; it’s about being understood.

Visit providers like Autism Detect for personal consultations.

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to Social Interaction.

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.