Science May Explain the Link Between Autism and Board Games

There is evidence that people with autism tend to be more interested in board games than the average population. Until recently, it was not known exactly why this was the case.

Now, research from the University of Plymouth and Edge Hill University provides some evidence about what kind of experience people with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) have with this kind of fun.

Board Games and People with Autism

What was known until then was that people with autism tend to really enjoy this type of entertainment. A survey of 1,603 players showed that although people with autism represent about 1% of the population, they represent 7% of participants in these games.

That’s why the researchers wanted to understand why. They conducted interviews to understand why people with autism spectrum disorder prefer board games. What they found was that these games tend to alleviate social anxiety, something that a large portion of the population with autism spectrum disorder suffers from.

The researchers also noted that one reason these games are so popular is that they tend to have clear rules and strict procedures, which people with autism often appreciate. “We know that board games are hobby Safe and valuable for many people with autism. “What this research has shown is why that is, and we really want to use the findings to drive future work,” said psychologist Gray Atherton of the University of Plymouth.

Favorite games of those surveyed

According to the research, among the games that people with autism spectrum disorder enjoy are Codenames (a word-drawing board game), Dixit (a card game that stimulates imagination), as well as One Night Ultimate Werewolf and Spyfall, games that contain clues that are necessary to discover the true identity of the participants.

The study authors reported that the rules and structure of these games were described by participants as “stimulating and relaxing.” They also noted that the sense of predictability was enjoyable for these people. “Board games can represent a challenge and strength for individuals with autism,” they wrote.

In addition to interviews, they also observed small group gaming sessions, and found that gaming brought benefits in terms of building independence and trust between players, as well as helping to foster social relationships, something that tends to be more difficult among people with autism spectrum disorder. “Every person with autism is unique, and we want to ensure that all interventions can be tailored as needed for those who might benefit,” Atherton concluded.