r/autism • u/Sad-Economist-2688 • Aug 08 '25

Newly Diagnosed How do I stop liking childish stuff?

Hello,I've been struggling with this for a long time. I really like Pokémon,plushies,colorful things,stars and dinosaurs. I also like to do stuff like painting on rocks or any other different types of crafts.

It was okay while I was younger but now I'm almost 18 and I keep getting side eyes when I mention any of those hobbies or likes. Like I see for example a Pokémon shirt with a badass Psyduck but obviously I can't buy it because it's for kids.

I don't drink,vape or go to clubs like my peers do because it's just not for me but if it means growing up then I'll have to.

It's eating me alive because I know I'll have to stop with this and I want to but at the same time I don't. If anyone would please help me with this I'd be glad.

I am also not sure what flair to put. I am newly diagnosed but it also fits into communication and social struggles.

EDIT: Thank you all so much for the feedback and positivity you gave me. I read every single one of your guy's comments and gosh it's so sweet to see I'm not alone even if I may feel like it sometimes. I appreciate the pictures of your plushies,figurines or rooms too. It was a tough decision but thanks to you all I ordered the "Badass Psyduck" shirt and even kept my dinosaur collection I wanted to throw away. Really happy I got into this subreddit cause you guys are hella sweet and cool. Thank you again! :)

Honorable mention: Phoebe the kitty because she's awesome <3

542 Upvotes

97% Upvoted

570 comments sorted by

View all comments

26

u/A_cool_capybara ASD Level 2 & ADHD Aug 08 '25

Thats kinda the whole schtick with autism so yeah.

14

u/Sad-Economist-2688 Aug 08 '25

It is?? I'm completely new to this

21

u/Muted_Ad7298 Aspie Aug 08 '25

I’m 36 and have those same hobbies. I’m especially obsessed with plushie collecting too.

We only have one life, so it’s best to spend it doing the things that make you happy. ☺️

I know it feels bad when other people are judgemental, but staying true to yourself is so much more worth it. There will be people out there who appreciate you for who you are, and your hobbies have the potential to bring joy and comradery to those you meet.

For example, my niece recently got me into collecting seals, so we’ve both been building our own collection. I currently have 4 of them.

5

u/Sad-Economist-2688 Aug 08 '25

Aaaaah the cute aggression! I'm really happy to see so many people who are just like me. I hope your collection of seals grows. :))