"Occulture" – a lifeline for many young autistics

A phenomenon termed "Occulture" is emerging as a significant area of interest for many young individuals on the autism spectrum, who report profound spiritual experiences and a deep fascination with popular culture's supernatural elements. Religious studies scholar Ingela Visuri notes that these young people are drawn to themes of magic and the paranormal.

One teenager, Anastazia, is convinced of the presence of spirits in her home. She describes inexplicable occurrences, like books falling from shelves, and wakes nightly at the same precise hour without knowing why. Far from being frightened, Anastazia feels a sense of wonder and fascination with her perceived ability to sense supernatural phenomena.

However, Anastazia, like many others experiencing similar phenomena, chooses to keep these experiences private. She fears that revealing them would lead others to view her as even more unusual than she already feels. This desire for secrecy highlights the social challenges faced by young autistics who have experiences that deviate from neurotypical norms.

The "Occulture" trend suggests a potential pathway for these young individuals to explore and understand their unique perceptions. The engagement with supernatural themes in media may offer a framework or a shared language to process experiences that might otherwise be isolating, providing a sense of connection and validation within a community that shares similar interests.