Yes. Eye contact is one of the most misunderstood signs of autism. Some autistic people find eye contact uncomfortable or overwhelming and avoid it, while others can make eye contact — particularly if they have learned coping strategies over time — but it may still feel unnatural or draining.

The ability to hold eye contact does not rule out an autism diagnosis. Our clinicians look at the full picture of social communication, sensory experience and lifelong patterns rather than relying on a single trait.