A person with autism is often called an Autistic person, using identity-first language, but some prefer person with autism (person-first), while others might use "on the spectrum," with preferences varying, so asking or respecting individual choice (like "Autistic" or "Person with autism") is key. Terms like "neurodivergent" or "autistic individual" are also used, reflecting autism as a natural difference rather than just a disorder, though clinicians still use terms like Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) for diagnosis.
What should you call a person on the spectrum? This is a somewhat intense debate, and everyone has their own opinions. Most autistic people prefer the phrasing “autistic person/people” because they see autism as an integral part of their identity.
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In the autism community, many self-advocates and their allies prefer terminology such as “Autistic,” “Autistic person,” or “Autistic individual” because we understand autism as an inherent part of an individual's identity — the same way one refers to “Muslims,” “African-Americans,” “Lesbian/Gay/Bisexual/Transgender/ ...
Main signs of autism
finding it hard to understand what others are thinking or feeling. getting very anxious about social situations. finding it hard to make friends or preferring to be on your own. seeming blunt, rude or not interested in others without meaning to. finding it hard to say how you feel.
Around 90% of autism cases are attributed to genetic factors, meaning autism is highly heritable, with many different genes contributing, rather than a single cause, often interacting with environmental influences during early brain development, though specific environmental factors don't cause it but can increase risk. Twin studies show strong genetic links, with concordance rates between 60-90% in identical twins, and research points to complex interactions of many genes and prenatal/perinatal factors.
Seven key signs of autism (Autism Spectrum Disorder - ASD) often involve difficulties with social communication (like avoiding eye contact or not responding to their name), restricted/repetitive behaviors (like hand-flapping or lining up toys), strong reactions to sensory input (lights, sounds), intense focus on specific interests, distress over changes in routine, challenges with social cues (like sarcasm), and sometimes, delays in speech or pretend play. These signs vary greatly and appear in different combinations, often becoming noticeable in early childhood.
In our team we use the terms “autistic” and “autism” wherever possible, as well as “on the spectrum” as these are usually preferred by autistic people themselves.
In 1877, British doctor John Down used the term developmental retardation to describe conditions including what would be considered autism today. Also in 1877, German doctor Adolf Kussmaul defined the condition aphasia voluntaria - when people choose not to speak.
“Person with disabilities” or “person with autism” is an example of person-first language, versus calling someone a “disabled person” or “autistic person”. At face value, using person-first language makes sense and is a clear attempt to be as respectful as possible with words.
Among those with autism, common triggers include disturbing breaks in routine, lack of sleep, jarring “sensory stimuli” (noises, lights, or smells) or even undiagnosed mental health problems.
The "6-second rule" for autism is a communication strategy where a speaker pauses for about six seconds after asking a question or giving information, giving the autistic person extra time to process it without feeling rushed, which helps reduce anxiety and allows for a more thoughtful response, reducing frustration for both parties. Instead of repeating or rephrasing, which can be confusing, you wait, and if needed, repeat the exact same words after the pause.
Understanding the 6 stages of an autism meltdown can help parents, caregivers, and educators respond with empathy and support.
The symptoms of Asperger's Syndrome are now included in a condition called Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). ASD is now the name used for a wide range of autism-like disorders. Some providers may still use the term Asperger's Syndrome, but others will say “ASD – without intellectual or language impairment." or autistic.
There is not just one cause of ASD. Many different factors have been identified that may make a child more likely to have ASD, including environmental, biologic, and genetic factors.
Savant syndrome is a rare, but extraordinary, condition in which persons with serious mental disabilities, including autistic disorder, have some 'island of genius' which stands in marked, incongruous contrast to overall handicap.
The Bible may not mention the word “autism,” but it speaks powerfully about God's love and purpose for all people! Genesis 1:27 tells us that every person is created in the image of God. That means people who have autism undoubtedly bear his image and are part of his divine plan.
In 1877, a British doctor named John Langdon Down used the term “developmental retardation” to describe symptoms that often occur in people with autism. At that time, “developmental retardation” referred to developmental delays.
The different types of autism include autism spectrum disorder (ASD), autistic disorder (classic autism), Asperger's syndrome, pervasive developmental disorder not otherwise specified (PDD-NOS), childhood disintegrative disorder (CDD), and Rett syndrome.
There are other names for autism used by some people, such as: Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) – the medical name for autism. Autism spectrum condition (ASC) – used instead of ASD by some people. Asperger's (or Asperger syndrome) – used by some people to describe autistic people with average or above average ...
The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th Edition (DSM-5) outlines three levels of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD): Level 1, Level 2, and Level 3.
" Stimming ," also known as self-stimulating behaviors or stereotypy, are repetitive body movements or repetitive movements of objects. Many individuals on the autism spectrum engage in routine stimming .
Autism red flags involve challenges with social communication (like avoiding eye contact, not responding to name by 12 months, lack of shared smiles/pointing) and restricted, repetitive behaviors (like hand-flapping, strong routines, lining up toys, intense fixations, sensory sensitivities, or loss of skills). Early signs in infants include no warm smiles by 6 months or no back-and-forth gestures by 12 months; regression (losing skills) is a major flag. If you notice these, seek immediate evaluation from your pediatrician.
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Autism Speaks is dedicated to creating an inclusive world for all individuals with autism throughout their lifespan. We do this through advocacy, services, supports, research and innovation, and advances in care for autistic individuals and their families.