What can we learn from SpongeBob?

SpongeBob SquarePants is autistic (according to Tom Kenny, his voice actor). I've shed many a tear (of laughter) watching the gloriously insane antics of SpongeBob and friends. My son is also a huge fan. I think he can teach us a lot about how to live authentically and joyfully in the world. Discuss.

Here's a primer on his traits:

  1. Literal Thinking: He often takes things literally, leading to misunderstandings.
  2. Intense Interests: He has a strong passion for his job and hobbies, like jellyfishing.
  3. Social Challenges: He sometimes struggles with social cues and norms.
  4. Repetitive Behaviours: He engages in routines and repetitive actions for comfort, like making Krabby Patties.
  5. Emotional Expression: He displays a wide range of exaggerated emotions, sometimes struggling to regulate them.
  6. Strong Sense of Justice: He stands up for friends and fairness.
  7. Unique Perspective: He sees the world differently, leading to creative problem-solving.
Parents Reply Children
  • And let's round it out a bit with Mr. Krabs:

    1. Intense Focus on Interests: Mr. Krabs has an overwhelming obsession with money and profit, often prioritising it above all else.
    2. Literal Thinking: He tends to take things literally, especially when it comes to business and financial matters.
    3. Social Awkwardness: Mr. Krabs can be socially awkward, often struggling to connect with others beyond his business interests.
    4. Repetitive Behaviours: He frequently engages in routines related to managing his restaurant and finances, showing a preference for consistency.
    5. Emotional Expression: His emotions, particularly greed and anger, are often exaggerated, leading to intense reactions.
    6. Difficulty with Change: Mr. Krabs resists changes that could affect his business, showing a strong attachment to his routines and practices.
  • And Patrick Star...

    1. Literal Thinking: Patrick often takes things literally, leading to confusion and humorous misunderstandings.
    2. Social Naivety: He can be socially unaware, often missing social cues and norms.
    3. Intense Interests: Patrick shows a strong focus on simple pleasures, like eating and sleeping, which can reflect a deep engagement with specific interests.
    4. Repetitive Behaviours: He frequently engages in repetitive actions and routines, providing comfort and familiarity.
    5. Emotional Expression: Patrick displays emotions in an exaggerated manner, sometimes struggling to articulate his feelings.
    6. Childlike Perspective: He often approaches situations with a simplistic, childlike view, leading to unique problem-solving methods.
  • Here, I'll do Squidward Tentacles:

    1. Social Withdrawal: Squidward often prefers solitude and avoids social interactions, reflecting a tendency to be introverted.
    2. Literal Thinking: He can be quite literal and often struggles to understand SpongeBob's antics.
    3. Intense Interests: Squidward is passionate about art and music, showing a deep focus on his interests.
    4. Difficulty with Change: He often resists changes in his routine or environment, leading to frustration.
    5. Emotional Expression: Squidward frequently expresses annoyance and frustration, sometimes struggling to manage his emotions.
    6. Critical Nature: He often critiques others, which can be seen as a lack of social tact.