Research reveals popular roleplaying game boosts confidence and social skills in autistic adults
The fantasy world of Dungeons and Dragons (D&D) offers more than just entertainment for autistic adults. A new study from the University of Plymouth suggests that this popular roleplaying game provides a unique space for autistic individuals to build confidence and improve social interactions.
Published in the journal Autism, the research challenges common misconceptions about autism and highlights the potential of imaginative play in supporting neurodivergent individuals.
Roleplaying as a Social Catalyst
The study, led by Dr. Gray Atherton from the University of Plymouth’s School of Psychology, involved a group of autistic adults who participated in D&D sessions over six weeks. Researchers observed the gameplay and conducted in-depth interviews with participants to understand their experiences.
Participants reported feeling a swift sense of kinship with fellow players, allowing them to relax and engage more freely in social interactions. The structured yet imaginative nature of D&D provided a comfortable environment where they could contribute to group dynamics without the pressure to mask their autistic traits.
Dr. Atherton explains, “There are many myths and misconceptions about autism, with some of the biggest suggesting that those with it aren’t socially motivated, or don’t have any imagination. Dungeons and Dragons goes against all that, centring around working together in a team, all of which takes place in a completely imaginary environment.”
Beyond the Game Table
The benefits of D&D extended beyond the gaming sessions. Participants found themselves adopting traits from their in-game characters in real-life situations, leading to increased confidence in daily interactions.
“Those taking part in our study saw the game as a breath of fresh air, a chance to take on a different persona and share experiences outside of an often-challenging reality,” Dr. Atherton noted. “That sense of escapism made them feel incredibly comfortable, and many of them said they were now trying to apply aspects of it in their daily lives.”
This research builds on previous work by Dr. Atherton and Dr. Liam Cross, also from the University of Plymouth, exploring the impact of gaming on autistic individuals. A recent study showed that board games, in general, can alleviate social pressures for autistic people by removing the need for small talk and providing a structured interaction environment.
Dr. Cross emphasized the importance of challenging stereotypes about autism and gaming: “We also hear from lots of families who have concerns about whether teenagers with autism are spending too much time playing things like video games. A lot of the time that is because people have a picture in their minds of how a person with autism should behave, but that is based on neurotypical experiences.”
Why It Matters: This research offers valuable insights for autistic individuals, their families, and healthcare professionals. It suggests that engaging in structured, imaginative play can provide meaningful social experiences and skill development opportunities for autistic adults. The study also highlights the importance of looking beyond traditional therapeutic approaches and considering the potential benefits of popular leisure activities.
The findings challenge common misconceptions about autism, particularly regarding social motivation and imagination. By demonstrating the positive impact of D&D, the study opens up new avenues for supporting autistic individuals in developing social skills and building confidence.
As society continues to work towards greater inclusivity and understanding of neurodiversity, studies like this provide crucial evidence for the value of diverse approaches to social engagement and personal development.
