Learning new languages, or expressing oneself in one's own language? They're not wholly unrelated things, but they're on different ends of the same spectrum. In terms of communication, some ASD individuals do have trouble learning to express themselves. Aspies tend to be on the less-severe end of the spectrum though, and are usually more or less fine in that regard. However, it is not uncommon for us to struggle with things like eye contact, body language, and proper conversational discourse.
As for learning languages, it probably depends. Many of us have the ability to hyperfocus, which can be really useful in a task such as learning a language. However, that "ability" comes with some caveats, such as it usually being directed towards something of interest to the individual, and whether it can be channeled towards something as productive as learning a language likely varies. One variable that's worth considering is where the area of hyperfocus is.
For example, I know from personal experience and observation of others that being really into Japanese media and wanting to learn Japanese solely for that end tends to end in frustration before too long. People in my Japanese class who were only there for that purpose dropped like flies in the first semester, no joke. That's not just an aspie thing, by the way. It's common with NTs. I myself have tried to use Japanese media as an incentive to get better at the language, but have only gotten so far. On the other hand, I have made the most progress when I have taken a genuine interest in the language.
What I can infer from my experience is, if someone were to hyperfocus on a language itself, out of genuine interest for the language, then I wouldn't be surprised if it did turn out to be a superpower that made getting the language down far easier. If it's simply viewed as a means to whatever end the hyperfocus is really on, then it might not work out nearly as well.
13 Jan 2022, 10:59 pm
