Characteristics and Coping Strategies of Neurodivergent Individuals 3
2025.09.17
Hello, this is Tatsuya Arakawa, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California.
In a previous article on the characteristics of neurodivergent individuals and strategies for them, I discussed one particular trait: “difficulty adapting to changes in the environment,” and in that piece I also talked about possible ways to cope with it.
In this blog, I would like to focus on another trait of neurodivergent individuals and explore strategies to address it. This time, the trait is “tendency to think in black-and-white.”
First, let me explain what this means. A tendency to think in black-and-white refers to the difficulty of engaging in flexible thinking. It often means seeing things only in extremes—either 1 or 0—while struggling to recognize what lies in between. For example, in relationships, one may judge others only as “liked” or “disliked,” finding it very difficult to acknowledge situations where it is neither, or to accept that both positive and negative feelings toward the same person can coexist.
Such a way of thinking often causes difficulties. For instance, in relationships, no matter how much someone likes person A, if A says something displeasing, the feelings may instantly flip from “like” to “dislike.” Even if the relationship had been very close, all the positive history may suddenly feel erased, with only “dislike” remaining in focus. (In fact, many neurodivergent individuals share this type of struggle.)
Of course, this trait also has its benefits. In environments where black-and-white thinking fits, the future becomes easier to predict, which can reduce anxiety and worry. Also, accepting ambiguity or “gray areas” can be challenging for anyone, not only for neurodivergent individuals. Thinking in black-and-white terms can be simpler and more straightforward. When things are going well, such thinking may not cause problems at all. However, when things don’t go well, it can lead to significant challenges.
Recognizing this kind of thinking on one’s own is often very difficult. Therefore, if someone around you points it out, it may be helpful to take a step back and consider, “Perhaps I do tend to think this way.” This can serve as an opportunity for greater self-awareness.
In my next post, I plan to discuss possible strategies for this characteristic.
I hope this information helps you gain accurate knowledge.
Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (#82425)
Tatsuya Arakawa