Indecisiveness and Autism: How These 6 Factors Challenge Decision-Making

Struggle with decision-making? You're not alone! Here are 6 factors that influence indecisiveness. Do you choose “A” or “B?” Do you prefer “this” or “that?” Which class do you want to take first? Or, “Here’s a list of 5 options. Just pick one. But, hurry! We haven’t got all day.” And, finally, how about, “Surprise! Today, we’re going to do a quick pop quiz to check how much you’ve learned.” (And feel free to substitute in “time math facts,” “reading quiz on how many words per minute” or “the life cycle of a plant.” You get the drill.)

Does just reading this create a sense of dread or even nausea? Does it feel like you’re under pressure to make the right choice and do so quickly? If so, you’re far from alone. 

Many individuals struggle with decision-making and indecisiveness at various times throughout their lives. But if you happen to be autistic, then it’s more likely to be a lifelong challenge.

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental condition that is commonly characterized by differences in social communication, sensory processing, and patterns of behavior. While autism manifests uniquely in each individual, many autistics report a common and anxiety-provoking challenge: indecisiveness. This difficulty in making big and small choices can significantly impact daily life and long-term planning.

Independence is sometimes a hurdle for adult autistics, but decision-making skills are essential to live the most productive life possible as your authentic self. Sometimes, indecisiveness can appear in the shape of methodical decision-making considerations. At its worst, it can hold you back in life.

In childhood, many things are decided (or mostly determined) for you with your best interests in mind. However, making decisions as an autistic adult can sometimes send sensory overload into overdrive. There is a thing called the paradox of choice, and it’s when you have so many choices you get overwhelmed and end up not choosing at all.

Whenever I get stressed out about a decision I make a pros and cons list in my head, complete with all the good stuff and bad stuff that can come from each scenario. This usually works because it’s nice and logical. But sometimes, there are too many possibilities to consider, so it gets stressful and overwhelming, and when that happens I like to rely on my gut.

My thinking is that in those situations do not think (or overthink) at all. Instead, just trust your gut instinct, because your intuition is a powerful thing. So, sometimes when an important choice leads to indecisiveness, I use the strategy that it’s better to empty your mind, ask yourself the question, and go with the first thing that comes to mind. Often, this is all the push you need.

Overthinking is dangerous in terms of managing your life, so believe in yourself and your life experiences, and I think the outcome will treat you right. Because, as the quote says, “A lack of a decision IS a decision.”

Indecision isn’t limited to autistics, of course, but it seems to be a serious problem with living a quality independent life, from selecting what to do after high school, and if attending college, deciding which one you want to attend and which major. You also may need to make decisions about a job, whether to pursue having a partner and even down to the more simplistic level of which outfit to wear every day or what to buy at the grocery store.

While others may provide well-meaning, but often non-helpful, comments about saying that everyone makes wrong decisions sometimes or the more you make decisions for yourself the easier they will become, it’s true that indecisiveness can lead to a long stall, affecting your overall road map in life.

Understanding Autism and Decision-Making

Before delving into the specifics of indecisiveness, here are some key aspects of autism that may influence decision-making processes:

Neurodiversity: Autism is a form of neurodiversity, meaning that autistic brains are wired differently from neurotypical brains. This can lead to unique strengths and challenges, including how decisions are approached and made.

Indecisiveness can be life impacting when you simply cannot make a decision. Executive Functioning: Many autistic individuals experience difficulties with executive functioning skills, which include planning, organizing, prioritizing, and initiating tasks. These skills are fundamental to effective decision-making.

Sensory Processing: Autism often involves differences in how sensory information is perceived and processed. This can affect how environmental stimuli are interpreted and factored into decisions.

Social Communication: Autistic individuals may process social cues and communication differently, which can impact decisions involving social situations or relying on others’ input.

6 Factors Contributing to Indecisiveness in Autism

Indecisiveness is a common challenge for many autistics, stemming from a complex interplay of cognitive, sensory, and emotional factors. While it can significantly impact daily life, understanding the underlying causes and employing targeted strategies can help improve decision-making skills.

Autistics, their supporters, and professionals must approach this issue with patience, recognizing that developing effective decision-making processes is a gradual journey. Here are factors contributing to an inability to make decisions:

1. Executive Functioning Challenges

Executive functions are a set of cognitive processes that enable us to plan, focus attention, remember instructions, and juggle multiple tasks. Many autistic individuals experience challenges with executive functioning, which can significantly impact decision-making.

For instance, difficulties with working memory might make it harder to hold multiple pieces of information in mind while weighing options. Challenges with cognitive flexibility could make it harder to adapt to new information or consider alternative perspectives during the decision-making process.

READ MORE: Helpful Self-Regulation Tips for Keeping Calm and Carrying On

2. Sensory Processing Differences

Autistics often experience sensory input differently, which can affect decision-making in several ways. Heightened sensitivity to sensory stimuli can make it challenging to focus on decision-making in environments with lots of sensory input. On the other hand, some autistic individuals might seek out specific sensory experiences, which could influence their choices.

Also, the ability to filter out irrelevant sensory information and focus on the most pertinent details for a decision can be more challenging for some on the spectrum. This can lead to a feeling of being overwhelmed by information when trying to make a choice.

READ MORE: Sensory Integration Dysfunction? A Sensory Diet Can Change Your Life

3. Preference for Routine and Predictability

Many autistic people have a strong preference for routine and predictability. This can complicate decision-making, as choices inherently involve some level of change or uncertainty. The prospect of altering established routines or venturing into unknown territory can provoke anxiety, leading to a tendency to avoid decisions or stick with familiar options even when they may not be optimal.

READ MORE: Rigid Routine: Why Being Inflexible Can Harm Happiness

4. Perfectionism and Fear of Mistakes

Perfectionism is common among many autistic individuals. While attention to detail can be a strength, it can also lead to difficulties in decision-making. The desire to make the “perfect” choice can result in analysis paralysis, where an individual becomes so caught up in analyzing options that they struggle to actually make a decision.

Furthermore, a heightened fear of making mistakes can make the prospect of decision-making anxiety-inducing. This can lead to avoidance of decision-making or excessive time spent on even minor choices.

RELATED: Overwhelmed Meaning: How to Cope When Stressed Beyond Belief

5. Social Communication Differences

Autism often involves differences in social communication and interpretation of social cues. This can impact decision-making, particularly in social contexts or situations where seeking advice or input from others might be beneficial. Difficulties in interpreting others’ perspectives or communicating one’s thought processes can complicate collaborative decision-making or seeking support for choices.

READ MORE: Autism Social Skills Inferencing and Body Language Hurdles to Overcome

6. Intense Interests and Hyperfocus

Many autistic individuals have intense interests or areas of expertise. While these can be great strengths, they can also influence decision-making processes. Decisions related to areas of special interest might involve excessive research or analysis. Conversely, decisions outside of these areas of interest might be more challenging to engage with.

READ MORE: Hyperintense Focus: Is Looping in Autism Case for Concern

The Strengths in Autistic Decision-Making

Autism and indecisiveness can be a real struggle and prevent living your best life. While the challenges associated with decision-making in autism are significant, it’s equally important to recognize the potential strengths that can arise from autistic cognitive styles:

  • Attention to Detail: The tendency to notice and consider small details can lead to more thorough decision-making processes, potentially catching important factors that others might overlook.

  • Logical Thinking: Many autistic individuals excel at logical reasoning, which can be a significant asset in systematic decision-making approaches.

  • Creative Problem-Solving: Unique perspectives and out-of-the-box thinking can lead to innovative solutions and decision outcomes.

  • Honesty and Directness: The tendency towards straightforward communication can be beneficial in collaborative decision-making, providing clear and honest input.

  • Deep Knowledge in Areas of Interest: When decisions align with areas of special interest, autistic individuals can bring a wealth of knowledge and enthusiasm to the process.

Breaking Down Decisions

Large decisions can feel overwhelming. Breaking them down into smaller, more manageable components can make the process less daunting. This might involve:

  • Identifying the main aspects of the decision
  • Addressing each component separately
  • Gradually building up to the final decision

By tackling decisions piece by piece, it becomes easier to focus on each aspect without feeling overwhelmed by the entirety of the choice.

Creating Structure

Developing a structured approach to decision-making can provide a sense of order and control. This might include:

  • Using decision matrices to compare options based on specific criteria
  • Creating flowcharts to visualize decision pathways
  • Employing pro/con lists to weigh the advantages and disadvantages of each option

These tools can help organize thoughts and make it easier to compare options objectively.

Setting Time Limits

For those prone to overthinking, setting time limits for decision-making can be helpful. This doesn’t mean rushing important decisions, but rather allocating a reasonable amount of time and sticking to it. Techniques might include:

  • Using timers for different stages of the decision-making process
  • Setting deadlines for reaching a final decision
  • Practicing making quick decisions on low-stakes choices to build confidence

Mindfulness and Emotional Regulation

Anxiety often accompanies decision-making, particularly for autistic individuals. Mindfulness and emotional regulation techniques can help manage these feelings:

  • Practicing deep breathing exercises before and during decision-making
  • Using grounding techniques to stay present and focused
  • Engaging in regular mindfulness meditation to improve overall emotional regulation

Leveraging Technology

Various technological tools can support decision-making processes:

  • Decision-making apps that guide users through structured processes
  • Reminder apps to keep track of decision deadlines or steps
  • Virtual reality tools for practicing decision-making in simulated environments

Seeking Support

While it’s important to maintain autonomy in decision-making, seeking support can be beneficial:

  • Identifying trusted individuals who can offer perspectives or advice
  • Joining support groups or online communities to share experiences and strategies
  • Working with therapists or coaches who understand autism and can provide tailored support

Embracing Strengths

Recognizing and leveraging individual strengths can enhance the decision-making process:

  • Using strong analytical skills to thoroughly evaluate options
  • Applying hyperfocus to research decisions thoroughly when appropriate
  • Utilizing strong memory skills to recall relevant information for decisions

Practicing Self-Compassion

Perhaps most importantly, it’s crucial for autistic individuals to be kind to themselves throughout the decision-making process:

  • Recognizing that perfect decisions don’t exist
  • Acknowledging that learning from decisions is valuable, regardless of the outcome
  • Celebrating the effort put into decision-making, not just the results

The Role of Environment

The environment in which decisions are made can significantly impact the process for autistic individuals. Creating a supportive environment might involve:

  • Minimizing sensory distractions during decision-making
  • Ensuring adequate time and space for processing choices
  • Having access to necessary tools or information for informed decision-making

Advocacy and Communication

For autistic adults, being able to advocate for their needs in decision-making contexts is crucial. This might involve:

  • Communicating the need for additional time or information
  • Explaining personal decision-making processes to others
  • Requesting accommodations in educational or workplace settings to support effective decision-making

RELATED: Sharing Life and Autism Social Story Lets Others See Authentic Self

The Importance of Practicing Decision-Making Skills

Practicing decision-making can help with overall independence and living your best life. Like any skill, decision-making can improve with practice. Starting with small, low-stakes decisions and gradually working up to more significant choices can help build confidence and refine personal decision-making strategies.

By leveraging strengths such as attention to detail and intense interests, utilizing supportive technologies, practicing self-advocacy, and employing targeted coping strategies, autistic individuals can improve their decision-making skills over time. Remember that progress may be gradual, and what works for one person may not work for another.

Ultimately, the goal is not to eliminate careful consideration or to force rapid decision-making, but to find a balance that allows for thoughtful choices while preventing decision paralysis. With patience, practice, and the right support, individuals with autism can develop decision-making processes that work for their unique neurology, enabling them to navigate life’s choices with greater confidence and ease.

If you’re an autistic individual struggling with indecisiveness, be kind to yourself as you explore different strategies. Celebrate small victories and remember that each decision, regardless of its outcome, is an opportunity for growth and self-understanding.

With time, practice, and self-compassion, you can develop decision-making skills that work for you, enhancing your ability to navigate life’s choices with greater ease and confidence.

Additional Challenges Individuals with Autism Face

Learn more about other issues that autistics face:

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Connor McClure

I'm a young adult navigating life with autism. By sharing my experiences and views, I hope to create a better awareness, understanding, and compassion for those on the spectrum. Let's connect!
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