Probably because Autism (high-functioning) is likely the default state in East Asia, not the exception.
I would assume that at least half of all East Asians would fall somewhere on the spectrum (by Western diagnostic standards). Most of Western psychology is culturally insignificant in East Asia, hence diagnoses are low.
Almost every single trait of someone with Asperger’s is also a stereotype of East Asians. Consider the following:
- Intellectual or Artistic Interest. East Asians are stereotyped as having a high intellectual and artistic interests. East Asians are commonly referred to as being good at Mathematics, Drawing (anime/manga) and playing instruments.
- Speech Differences. East Asians (especially in the West) are stereotyped as “speaking differently”, this may be due to language barriers. But East Asian people I know tend to write and speak in a highly analytical and factual manner, devoid of adjectivity and emotions. This can often be difficult for Westerners to understand.
- Delayed Motor Development. It’s generally established, that East Asian children (on average) develops motor skills later than all other ethnic groups. (Mayson, Harris, S. R., & Bachman, C. L. (2007)).
- Poor Social Skills. East Asian people are stereotyped as being introverted or having poor social skills. This can be associated with traditional Confucian values of reservation and conformity.
- The Development of Harmful Psychological Problems. Japan and Korea consistently has the highest number of net suicides of any country on the planet. And some of the highest suicide rates per capita.
- Detail-oriented. East Asians are stereotyped as being very detail orientated and perfectionistic. Japanese craftsmanship and Korean beauty standards are prime examples of this. The only European country that places as much emphasis on perfection as the Japanese is probably Germany.
- Persistence. East Asians are stereotyped as being highly persistent. I.e. practicing violin, piano, studying, drawing for 48 hours per day.
- Not Socially-driven. (See “Poor Social Skills”)
- High Integrity. East Asians are stereotyped as being shame and not guilt driven. Even if there is no contract, they often hold true to their words to “save face.”
- Masters of Routine. Does this really need an explanation?
