Understanding Autism
Understanding Autism
Autism is a set of differences that impact on how people experience, think about and interact with the world.
These differences are linked with how an autistic person's brain develops and functions.
We do not know why autistic brains develop and work differently. Working differently does not mean working less well.
Autism is a diagnosis.The diagnostic name for autism is Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD).
Research tells us that identity first language is preferred by most autistic people. Identity first language means saying autistic person rather than person with autism.
Being autistic means having differences in two main areas:
Social communication and interaction
This could include differences in:
- Understanding and using speech and other forms of communication, for example eye contact, gesture and facial expression
- Friendships and talking with other people
- Understanding other people's thoughts and feelings
- Understanding social rules
Interests , activities, movements and sensory experiences
This could include:
- Spending a lot of time on interests you are passionate about
- Preferring things to stay the same
- Repeating the same hand or body movements
- Sensory interests or differences
If you are autistic these differences will be present throughout your life but may present differently at different times.
Every autistic person is different and will have their own strengths and needs.
'If you have met one autistic person, you have met one autistic person'
Dr Stephen Shore, autistic professor
It can be useful to find out about autism because it can help you to:
- understand yourself and your experiences
- learn more about the experiences of other autistic people
- think about what is helpful and what is not helpful for you
- develop skills and strategies to use when you need them
Some autistic people will need support, some autistic people will not. The support needed is also likely to change over time.