5. Routine Reliance: The Comfort in Predictability
For those with AS, a well-defined routine is like a safety net, providing a sense of security in an unpredictable world. While most people have routines, the extent to which those with Asperger’s rely on them is often at another level. It’s not merely about comfort; it’s a necessity for mental well-being.
However, this affinity for routine doesn’t stem from a lack of adaptability or rigidity. On the contrary, it is a coping mechanism to manage sensory overload and the anxiety that comes with the unknown. It’s akin to plotting a course through choppy waters; the more predictable the route, the easier the journey.
Interestingly, the routine isn’t just a series of actions but often accompanied by ‘rituals.’ These could range from the order in which tasks are performed to more complex actions like repeatedly checking locks. Though this might seem odd to the external observer, each ritual often serves a functional purpose, like mental bookmarks in a chaotic narrative. (5)
