Autism
I am often asked how the personality styles relate to people with autism. Questions often sound something like: “Is there a particular style that is more common for autistic people?”
Let me be clear: People on the autism spectrum span the personality spectrum. They can be direct and assertive Eagles, social and enthusiastic Parrots, caring and supportive Doves, or analytical and curious Owls.
That being said, most people on the spectrum typically have some aspects of the Owl style as either a primary or secondary style.
If you watch Love on the Spectrum, and since you are reading this article, I highly recommend you go to Netflix and watch it today —it’s heartwarming and fantastic—you will see people of all four styles.
Let’s explore why Owl traits are commonly observed among autistic individuals:
Owl Traits and Autism Overlap
Detail-oriented thinking – Owls thrive on precision, logic, and accuracy, as do many autistic individuals.
Comfort in structure and routine – Owls often dislike unpredictability and prefer systems and rules, which mirrors a common preference in autistic people.
Literal interpretation – Both Owls and many autistic individuals tend to interpret language literally and value clarity over nuance or sarcasm.
Internal processing – Like Owls, many autistic people prefer internal reflection to external expression, which can sometimes be mistaken for aloofness or disinterest.
Emotion expressed subtly – Owls typically show emotion more subtly, which overlaps with how some autistic individuals communicate or connect emotionally.
To be clear, I am not saying that if you have the above traits, you are autistic.
I am simply saying that autistic people tend to have the above traits.
Not every autistic person is an Owl
Autism is a neurodevelopmental difference, not a personality style. Some autistic people may have vivid imaginations, love storytelling, and display charisma, hallmarks of the Parrot style. Others may be deeply empathetic and nurturing like Doves, or tenacious and driven like Eagles.Think of it this way:
Autism affects how someone processes the world.
Personality affects how someone expresses themselves in the world.
So, while the Owl style is often associated with patterns seen in autism, autistic individuals can embody any of the four styles.
Understanding autism through the lens of personality styles deepens our empathy, insight, and ability to truly connect.