This is an interesting observation, but it’s important to clarify that not all autistic individuals (sometimes colloquially referred to as “aspies,” especially those with traits formerly associated with Asperger’s Syndrome) avoid using “I” or default to “we” or “hum.” However, there are a few possible reasons why some autistic people might do this—either occasionally or habitually—and it often relates to differences in social communication, self-perception, or coping strategies:
1. Difficulty with Self-Reference or Identity Expression
Some autistic individuals may feel uncomfortable drawing attention to themselves or expressing personal opinions directly. Using “we” or impersonal language can feel safer or less vulnerable. This isn’t about inability—it’s about preference or anxiety around self-disclosure.
2. Masking or Social Camouflaging
Many autistic people learn to “mask” their natural communication style to fit in socially. In some contexts, using “we” may feel more socially acceptable (e.g., sounding collaborative rather than self-centered), especially if they’ve been criticized in the past for being “too direct” or “self-focused.”
3. Literal or Systematic Thinking
Autistic individuals often think in precise or rule-based ways. If they’re describing something that applies broadly (even if it originated from their own experience), they may generalize it to “we” or “people” because they assume others share the experience—or because they’re trying to sound objective.
4. Use of Echolalia or Scripted Language
Some autistic people use echolalia (repeating phrases heard elsewhere) or rely on scripts learned from media, school, or work environments. In professional or educational settings, “we” is often used to sound inclusive or formal (“As we can see…”), and this phrasing may become habitual.
5. Cultural or Linguistic Influence
In some cultures or bilingual settings (e.g., Urdu/English contexts), indirect or collective language is more common. An autistic person raised in such an environment might naturally adopt “we” or vague pronouns as part of their linguistic norm—not specifically due to autism, but in combination with it.
6. Avoiding Judgment or Conflict
Saying “I think…” can invite disagreement or scrutiny. Using “we” or passive voice (“it could be said that…”) may be a way to express ideas while reducing the risk of personal criticism—a strategy used by both neurotypical and neurodivergent people, but possibly more pronounced in those sensitive to social consequences.
In short: It’s not that autistic people can’t say “I”—most certainly can and do. But in certain situations, they might choose not to, due to social anxiety, learned communication styles, or a desire to generalize rather than personalize. This is highly individual and not a universal trait.
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