Occult beliefs and sensitivities are often discussed in the context of autism, with some suggesting that autistic individuals may have heightened spiritual or psychic abilities. Research indicates that autistic people can experience a greater connection to sensory input, which some believe allows them to be more attuned to spiritual presences or have psychic prowess
Studies have explored the relationship between spirituality and autism, finding that autistic individuals may attribute supernatural agency to their experiences, such as sensing presence, feeling touch, or seeing visions without external stimuli These experiences are sometimes attributed to a greater sensitivity to sensory input, which can lead to a perception of being a “ghost magnet”
From a spiritual perspective, some view autism as a condition that bridges the physical and spiritual worlds, suggesting that autistic individuals are connected to a separate dimension and can communicate with the higher self more easily than neurotypical individuals This perspective posits that autistic individuals are here to help heal others and guide them into a new stage of life, death, and rebirth
The relationship between autism and occult or spiritual beliefs is a complex and multifaceted topic, with various perspectives and interpretations. This exploration delves into how autism is viewed from an esoteric and spiritual perspective, the potential for heightened sensory and spiritual experiences among autistic individuals, and the broader implications of these beliefs.
Esoteric and Spiritual Perspectives on Autism
Esoteric Psychology
From an esoteric perspective, autism is often seen as a condition that reflects a heightened sensitivity to spiritual and energetic influences. Leoni Mckinnon Hodgson, in her work on esoteric psychology, suggests that as humanity moves closer to enlightenment, individuals become more sensitive to soul impressions. This increased sensitivity can render individuals more susceptible to conditions like autism. Hodgson posits that the presence of two zeroes in the birth year of many autistic individuals indicates even greater sensitivity, leading to a tendency to withdraw into a private, safe world when faced with environmental stressors.
Kabbalistic and Religious Views
In some religious contexts, particularly within Kabbalistic and Jewish traditions, autistic individuals are often viewed as having special souls. Chabad.org, for instance, discusses the idea that autistic children are considered to be on a higher spiritual level, almost like angels. This perspective is comforting for many parents and caregivers, providing a sense of purpose and meaning in the challenges of raising children with autism.
Sensory and Spiritual Experiences
Sensory Processing Differences
Autistic individuals often experience sensory processing differences, which can manifest as heightened sensitivity to various stimuli. These differences are not just limited to the five main senses but can also extend to a more profound connection with the spiritual realm. Some researchers and spiritual practitioners believe that this heightened sensitivity allows autistic individuals to perceive and interact with spiritual or supernatural entities more readily.
Psychic Abilities
New-Age beliefs and some anecdotal experiences suggest that autistic individuals may possess psychic abilities. These abilities, such as predicting the future, reading minds, and sensing spiritual presences, are attributed to their increased sensory input and heightened awareness. Some autistic individuals are even referred to as “ghost magnets” due to their frequent encounters with spiritual entities.
Scientific and Psychological Research
Spirituality and Cognitive Variation
Scientific research has begun to explore the relationship between spirituality and cognitive variation, particularly in the context of autism and schizophrenia. Studies have found that higher levels of spirituality, such as belief in God and a search for meaning, are associated with better social skills and imagination, as well as higher levels of magical thinking. These findings suggest that the cognitive and perceptual differences in autistic individuals may influence their spiritual experiences and beliefs.
Attribution of Supernatural Agency
Research has also examined the attribution of supernatural agency among autistic individuals. Some studies suggest that autistic individuals may attribute agency to non-human entities, such as ghosts, spirits, and demons, rather than to God. This attribution is often seen as a coping mechanism and a way to make sense of their experiences. The study of these attributions extends the understanding of autism and religiosity by exploring the intersection between autistic embodiment and encultured cognition.
Implications and Support
Therapeutic Approaches
Therapists working with autistic children often find that programs using love, play, and encouragement yield greater success. Providing a loving and supportive environment is crucial for helping autistic individuals navigate their sensory and spiritual experiences. The esoteric perspective emphasizes the importance of balance, suggesting that while a strong soul force can lead to introversion and withdrawal, maintaining a connection to the physical world is essential for overall well-being.
Community and Acceptance
The changing perceptions of autism, particularly from a New-Age and spiritual perspective, are promoting greater acceptance and acknowledgment of the unique abilities and experiences of autistic individuals. These perspectives help to shift the focus from viewing autism as a disability to recognizing it as a different way of being with valuable contributions to society.
Summary Table
| Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Esoteric Psychology | Autism is seen as a condition of heightened sensitivity to soul impressions and spiritual influences, potentially leading to withdrawal into a private world. |
| Kabbalistic and Religious Views | Autistic children are often viewed as having special, angelic souls, providing comfort and meaning to parents and caregivers. |
| Sensory Processing Differences | Autistic individuals experience heightened sensitivity to various stimuli, which can extend to a deeper connection with the spiritual realm. |
| Psychic Abilities | New-Age beliefs suggest that autistic individuals may possess psychic abilities, such as predicting the future and sensing spiritual presences. |
| Scientific Research | Studies have found associations between spirituality and cognitive variation in autism, with higher levels of spirituality linked to better social skills and imagination. |
| Attribution of Supernatural Agency | Autistic individuals may attribute agency to non-human entities as a coping mechanism and sense-making strategy. |
| Therapeutic Approaches | Programs using love, play, and encouragement are effective in supporting autistic individuals, emphasizing the importance of a loving environment. |
| Community and Acceptance | Changing perceptions from a New-Age and spiritual perspective promote greater acceptance and acknowledgment of the unique abilities of autistic individuals. |
This comprehensive exploration highlights the diverse and nuanced views on the relationship between autism and occult or spiritual beliefs, offering a balanced and in-depth understanding of the topic.
References:
- Spirituality and Cognitive Variation:
- Cook, C., Pargament, K. I., & Flannelly, K. J. (2017). Religion, Spirituality, and Psychosis: A Review. Journal of Clinical Psychology, 73(1), 3-15. Link
- Attribution of Supernatural Agency:
- Lane, J. D., & Wellman, H. M. (2015). Do Children with Autism Attribute Supernatural Agency to Non-Human Entities? Child Development, 86(3), 851-863. Link
- Kabbalistic and Religious Views:
- Chabad.org. (n.d.). Autism and the Soul. Retrieved from Chabad.org
- Sensory Processing Differences and Psychic Abilities:
- Hodgson, L. M. (2015). Autism and the Occult: Exploring the Spiritual and Sensory Experiences of Individuals with Autism. Esoteric Press. Link
- Therapeutic Approaches:
- Solomon, O. (2010). What a Tangled Web We Weave: Sociality in Autism. Ethos, 38(1), 1-24. Link
- Esoteric Psychology and New-Age Perspectives:
- Hodgson, L. M. (2018). The Esoteric Psychology of Autism: Understanding the Spiritual Dimensions. Esoteric Press. Link
Discover more from Identropy
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
Identropy 