Anime, Manga, and the Etiology of Autism

Susie was a 9-year-old girl with autism who loved watching anime and reading manga. Her parents were initially concerned that her interest in these forms of entertainment might somehow contribute to her condition, but they soon realized that they could benefit her. Here’s how anime, manga, and the etiology of autism worked together in Susie’s life:

• When Susie watched anime, she was often drawn to the exaggerated emotions and expressions of the characters. This helped her understand and interpret nonverbal communication, which was often difficult.
• Susie also enjoyed reading manga because it allowed her to express her thoughts and emotions through pictures. She found it easier to communicate this way than through verbal communication.
• One of Susie’s favorite anime series was “Haikyuu!!,” which told the story of a high school volleyball team working together to reach their goals. Susie loved seeing the characters overcome challenges and support each other, inspiring her to do the same in her own life.
• Another anime series Susie enjoyed was “K-On!,” which featured a character named Azusa, who was depicted as having symptoms of autism. Seeing a character like her on-screen made Susie feel seen and understood.
• Susie’s parents also found that watching anime and reading manga together with her provided opportunities for them to bond and connect with her in a way that was enjoyable for everyone.

In conclusion, while there is no evidence watching anime or reading manga causes autism, these forms of entertainment can benefit individuals on the autism spectrum. By featuring exaggerated emotions, visual storytelling, and relatable characters, anime, and manga can help individuals better understand and navigate the world around them. Additionally, products like Goally can further support children with special needs by providing fun and interactive ways to build life and language skills.