What're your thoughts on Urahara being autistic?
Interesting question, Anon. I suppose whenever a character has quirks, this question must arise. So, fair enough; let's consider evidence, and how well he fits some typical traits of autistic-coded characters. I looked these up, so please forgive any oversights or discrepancies they might come with.
1. Social Difficulties. The character might have difficulty interpreting body language, facial expressions, or tone of voice, leading to awkward or misunderstood interactions. They might find small talk uncomfortable or unnecessary and may prefer more direct or in-depth conversations.
Kisuke actually seems generally good at reading people and speaking to their unvoiced thoughts.
He's generally good with small talk and jovial banter, as well.
2. Literal Thinking. Autistic-coded characters may take things literally and struggle to understand figures of speech, sarcasm, or jokes that rely on double meanings.
This one's a bit tougher to pin down, because while I certainly can provide examples of him using sarcasm and figures of speech, I'm not sure I can point to many that he must interpret from others. He can be pedantic, though, for the sake of mischief.
3. Focused Interests. These characters often have highly focused interests that they pursue with intensity. They may talk at length about their interests, sometimes to the point of alienating others who don't share the same level of enthusiasm.
If you were looking for a character that fit this characteristic, I would probably point you to Mayuri, who relentlessly and repeatedly pursues his special interest of creating life. Although we do know that Kisuke spent years trying to find a way to prevent Hollowfication, we don't really see him engrossed in that research except in a brief flashback. We also have developed fanon that he loses sense of time while focused on research projects, mostly from that anime-only TBTP episode in which Soi Fon stalks him. But otherwise, the only time we see him emerge unkempt and disheveled is when Rukia visits the shop so early she wakes him from sleep. So while I do enjoy leaning into the headcanon that he can become absorbed in his projects, we really never see him in that process. They're always presented as a fait accompli.
4. Routine and Structure: They may rely heavily on routines, schedules, or predictability in their day-to-day life. Changes to these routines can cause them distress or anxiety.
This characteristic might fit. He does wear the same outfit daily, even after Kubo released the NBFH chapter and every other character got a glow-up... except him. He's the same. At least get a haircut, my guy.
5. Sensory Sensitivity. Autistic-coded characters may be overwhelmed by loud noises, bright lights, certain textures, or strong smells. Alternatively, they may be under-responsive to sensory stimuli.
We don't really see him react negatively to sensory input, though we do know from Klub Outside Q&A that he has a bland palate and prefers rice. This might point to sensory issues with food.
His monotonous wardrobe might also be a comfort issue—he's basically in his pajamas 24/7!
6. Blunt Communication. These characters often say exactly what they mean without worrying too much about social norms or diplomacy. They may be perceived as rude, even though they don't intend to offend.
Oh my. I think if anything he has the opposite problem—indirect and evasive to a fault! His speech, too, is meticulously polite. He consistently uses soft, practically feminine-coded polite Japanese grammar, very diplomatic.
7. Difficulty with Eye Contact. The character might find eye contact uncomfortable or even painful, preferring to look away or focus on other things during conversations.
We don't see this during TBTP, but we do with the hat. It is a form of armor, in a way, to keep folks at a distance. This, however, has likely more to do with trying not to draw attention to himself for most of canon. He would prefer to avoid the spotlight; there is more room to maneuver in the dark. But he has no trouble making eye contact when he wants to be intimidating.
8. Emotional Expression. Their emotional expressions may not match what others expect. For example, they might seem to have a neutral or "flat" tone of voice or facial expressions, even when they are feeling strong emotions.
This... is the opposite of a flat affect.
9. Logical and Analytical Thinking. Autistic-coded characters may be exceptionally good at logic, analysis, or pattern recognition, sometimes to the detriment of understanding emotions or social dynamics.
Well, all right, you've got me there. I don't think I even need to spend time on this question. Next?
10. Difficulty with Change. They might find it hard to shift from one task to another or adapt to changes in plans or environments.
In terms of changes in plans and environments, I can't think of anyone more adept to the ground shifting beneath his feet, can you?
Points 3, 4, 5, and definitely 9 might have him on the spectrum... but that's less than five out of ten, and aren't we all on the spectrum? That's why it's a spectrum!
If he's a little bit of a jerk when it comes to being considerate and sensitive with peoples' feelings, well, I'm going to say that's just his personality.
