In “A critical hit: Dungeons & Dragons as a buff for autistic people”, Atherton and colleagues explore how tabletop role-playing games (TTRPGs) like Dungeons & Dragons (D&D) can be a positive space for autistic adults.
The study draws on interviews with participants who played D&D regularly, highlighting how the game provides a predictable and structured environment where players can experiment with social interactions and build confidence.
Playing Dungeons & Dragons gave participants a safe space to try out social interactions and build confidence in ways they couldn’t in everyday life.
Players reported that adopting a character allowed them to try out communication styles, practice teamwork, and safely navigate situations they might find challenging in real life.
The fantasy setting gave them a sense of control and agency, and the turn-based, rule-driven gameplay reduced anxiety around unpredictable social dynamics.
Many participants also described forming meaningful friendships and feeling included in a community that understood their style of interaction.
The study emphasizes that TTRPGs aren’t just “fun” — they can act as a therapeutic and social tool, helping autistic adults develop social skills, manage anxiety, and connect with peers.
While the research is small and exploratory, it suggests that structured, imaginative games like D&D can be a valuable complement to formal support or therapy, offering a playful yet purposeful way to grow social confidence and emotional resilience.
link to paper: A critical hit: Dungeons and Dragons as a buff for autistic people – PMC