Ann Oldenburg

USA TODAY

Jerry Seinfeld is known for joking around, but he's serious when he's talking about autism.

NBC's Brian Williams interviewed the comedian on Thursday's Nightly News, calling Seinfeld "the most restless man in comedy" as they talked about Seinfeld's popular Web series, Comedians in Cars Getting Coffee.

As part of the chat, the topic turned to Seinfeld and what makes him tick, about his love for comedy and about still doing stand-up after all these years.

"Yeah. And this gets to a larger life perspective," says Seinfeld. "If you're more interested in what you have achieved or what your financial position enables you to do than that thing that got those things, you're screwed — in my opinion, you're screwed.

Williams notes that at 60, Seinfeld is still "figuring out who he is. For example: in recent years as he's learned about autism spectrum disorders, he sees it in himself."

Seinfeld confirms that, saying, "I think, on a very drawn-out scale, I think I'm on the spectrum."

"Why? What are the markers?" asks Williams.

"You know, never paying attention to the right things," says Seinfeld. "Basic social engagement is really a struggle."

Seinfeld goes on to explain, "I'm very literal. When people talk to me and they use expressions, sometimes I don't know what they're saying. But I don't see it as dysfunctional. I just think of it as an alternate mindset."

Although most people with autism spectrum disorders have problems with social, emotional and communication skills, these issues can vary widely, as Seinfeld suggests. Some people on the autism spectrum may feel uncomfortable socializing, but excel in math and science careers. Others on the spectrum may not speak or make any eye contact at all, and shun human touch.

People with autism may repeat certain behaviors and avoid changes in their daily activities, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Many people with autism also have different ways of learning, paying attention or reacting.

Contributing: Liz Szabo