Can Children with Autism Understand Emotions?

June 26, 2025

Yes, children with autism can understand emotions, but they may need extra support learning how to recognize, express, and respond to them. Many autistic children struggle with reading facial expressions, tone of voice, or body language, which can make emotional understanding more challenging. However, with the right tools and practice, they can build strong emotional awareness over time.

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy often includes emotion-based goals, helping children identify feelings in themselves and others. Visual aids, role-playing, and social stories are commonly used to teach emotional concepts in a clear, structured way.


While the process may take time, many children with autism go on to form meaningful relationships, show empathy, and manage their emotions effectively with the right support.


Looking for ways to help your child understand emotions better?


At Blue Jay ABA, we offer personalized in-home ABA therapy across North Carolina to help children build emotional and social skills in a supportive, one-on-one environment. Contact us today to get started.


SOURCES:


https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC2781897/


https://raisingchildren.net.au/autism/development/social-emotional-development/recognising-understanding-emotions-autistic-children-teens


https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6844292/


https://reframingautism.org.au/autism-and-emotions-how-and-why-do-autistic-people-process-emotions-differently/


https://www.autismawareness.com.au/navigating-autism/big-emotions-in-young-autistic-people

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