Published on 12, July, 2020
Hi, I've posted a few times and joined a few discussions, whilst exploring the possibility that I'm ASD. If I was comfortable with 'just' self-identifying, I would. But I'm pursuing a diagnosis as I feel people in my life will only start believing me if/when I get one. It means I'm questioning things and probably overthinking things whilst I wait (which I'm gathering is a possible ASD-trait in itself!).
One thing that doesn't seem to fit clearly is with my special interest, because it's socially acceptable. Like, I'm all for people here who are into the less NT-conventional hobbies. All interests are great, as far as I see it. Each to their own. But is anyone else's special interest, inherently normalised, like mine?
You see, my obsession has always been football/soccer. Growing up I used to play, watch, read and talk about football all day and every day. It's probably the only thing which helped me bond and join in with others. If I wasn't inherently interested and good at it from an early age, I probably wouldn't have mixed with other children all that much, if at all. As an adult, I get down when I can't watch as much of it as I used to when I was younger and without grown-up responsibilities.
It isn't the passion or the camaraderie I like. Other fans and commentators on the TV frustrate and annoy me, rather than enhancing the experience. It's the being able to see things in players or things that happen on the pitch which others don't notice which I love. Like if I watch a game live, I see fouls or offsides before anyone else around me. I can pick out young or unknown players and see potential in them really early on.
But, then, I'm not stats or facts-obsessed, which might be expected for an ASD fan. It's more like me loving being an expert-viewer or scout. And I can't get enough. I could watch every European league, if I could.
So, I'm wondering, does anyone else have a genuine love for an NT-conventional interest? And, if you're diagnosed, do you think having that interest might've meant you 'hid your ASD in the shadows' so to speak and blended in with others more than you otherwise might have if your interests were less conventional?
This is a really interesting topic! I've never heard of such thing as "NT-conventional interest" or "ASD interest" but it got me thinking...I had a hard time with team sports, I like basketball but always struggle with being aware of other team members such as gauging who are open for me to pass the ball, or being open so they can pass the ball.I totally see your annoyance with other fans and commentators + just want to watch the game may be ASD related. Also know that you are not stat-obsessed surprised me a bit comparing to your obsession with the sports.Feel free to pinpoint if which of my interests sound like "NT-conventional interest" or "ASD interest":- Distance running (especially trail running): Running alone is my therapy but I am able to handle being in the crowd of a race and I talk to a lot of people there.- Music: I like listening, playing, writing songs, watch band documentaries, and go to shows once in a while. I feel delightful to find someone in the real world to talk about music in similar styles (symphonic metal and progressive metal mostly)- Crafting: I like building guitars, shelves, and learning bladesmithing.
Ninjamelody said:never heard of such thing as "NT-conventional interest
In my life time gaming went from highly niche special interest to primary global interest. I watch documentaries on gaming and gaming companies and have an ongoing awareness of most of the top operators in the field.
Yes - the 'field' of gaming. Official qualifications can be attained in the 'subject'.