The Intersection of Autism and Far-Right Victimization: A National Security Issue

In recent years, the intersection between autism and the far-right has become a troubling reality  and deeply concerning — one that those of us who work with autistic people don’t really want to talk about. 

But we must.

While the far-right’s influence on vulnerable communities is well-documented, few groups are as susceptible as autistic individuals. This susceptibility is not inherent; it is the result of systemic exclusion, loneliness, and social alienation faced by many in the autistic community. The book Black Pill by Elle Reeve exposes how this exclusion can lead to radicalization, with dire consequences not just for individuals, but for our whole society.

“The internet has become a breeding ground for discontent, offering a false sense of community and acceptance to those who feel left out,” Reeve, an investigative undercover reporter, writes.  

Loneliness, Exclusion, and the Far-Right

Autistic individuals often struggle to navigate social norms, making it difficult for them to find acceptance in mainstream social settings. The neurotypical world's misunderstanding and lack of accommodation for autistic behaviors can lead to isolation, creating a perfect breeding ground for radical ideologies that promise belonging and community. In Black Pill, Reeve discusses how this sense of isolation is often exploited by far-right recruiters who prey on individuals who feel like outcasts, shunned by the larger society.

Reeve points out that autistic people, with their frequent struggles in interpreting social cues and finding places of acceptance, can become prime targets. "Isolation leads to desperation," she notes, "and when someone offers a sense of belonging, no matter how toxic, it’s hard to refuse." The far-right exploits this by offering a sense of purpose and belonging to those who have felt ignored or misunderstood — often with devastating results. Because we need belonging in order to survive as human beings, these individuals, desperate for acceptance, may find a false sense of community within extremist groups.

The Role of Explicit Social Skills Training

Addressing this issue is not merely a matter of improving social inclusion for autistic individuals; it is a matter of national security. If autistic individuals are increasingly targeted by extremist groups, they become vulnerable to being radicalized into violence. To counteract this, direct and explicit instruction in social skills must be provided—not just to autistic people, but to the broader society that engages with them.

Many autistic people report struggling with unspoken social rules, which neurotypical individuals often pick up intuitively. However, these rules can be explicitly taught, allowing autistic individuals to understand and navigate social landscapes more effectively. More importantly, environments — such as families, schools, and workplaces — must be trained in trauma-informed, inclusive practices to accommodate autistic individuals and create a culture of understanding and belonging.

Reeve underscores the importance of such initiatives, arguing that "national security begins in the community, where the seeds of extremism are either uprooted or left to grow." By proactively building inclusive, understanding communities, the chances of radicalization are diminished.

Training Environments to Prevent Radicalization

While it is crucial to provide autistic people with tools to navigate social norms, it is equally vital that neurotypical individuals learn to be more accepting and inclusive. This goes beyond basic awareness. It involves training schools, workplaces, and communities to actively foster environments where autistic individuals feel welcomed, understood, and valued — in essence, acceptance. 

Social skills training programs should be a standard in schools, not just for autistic students but for all students. Teaching empathy, understanding, and acceptance from a young age can reduce social exclusion, thereby lessening the chances of someone feeling so isolated that they become vulnerable to radical ideologies. These programs are, therefore, an investment in national security, building resilience against extremism by creating strong, inclusive communities and secure attachments, including friendships. 

Conclusion

The intersection of autism and far-right radicalization is a complex but urgent issue. As Reeve eloquently highlights in Black Pill, exclusion, loneliness, and a lack of understanding are being weaponized. By addressing these root causes through direct social skills training and the cultivation of inclusive environments, we not only improve the lives of autistic individuals but also protect society as a whole.

If national security begins with the strength of our communities, then it is imperative that we ensure those communities are inclusive, understanding, and supportive for all—especially those most at risk of being marginalized.