Autistic spectrum

The autism spectrum (also referred to as the autistic spectrum) is a developmental and behavioral condition that results from combinations of characteristically autistic traits, including differences in social interaction, communication, interests, imagination and activities.

All of these traits are found in the neurotypical population, but autistic people tend to have these traits to a greater extent, and to an extent that it is seen as a disability instead of only a personality trait.

In the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-IV-TR) and the International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems (ICD-10), autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are classified as pervasive developmental disorders (PDD), as opposed to "specific developmental disorders" like dyslexia or dysgraphia. In the DSM-5 the Spectrum was defined under this name alone.

Autistic traits

Behaviorally, a minimum number of characteristics identify the autism spectrum in combination. These traits can be beneficial for some disciplines like science, mathematics, engineering, and software if they are developed correctly. Some autistic individuals may show a marked proficiency in rote memorization which would help learn the foundation of these subjects; however, the exceptionally good aptitude (in these subjects) of some autistic people may be due to their ability to readily identify patterns and apply them consistently to new situations outside of established knowledge or teaching.

Social differences

• Restricted ability to make friends
• Does not understand others' feelings in some or all situations unless they are fully explained
• Seen as socially awkward
• Indiscriminate social interaction
• Eye contact is inconsistent
• Brief response to questions, or overly detailed
• Socially naive

Language differences

• Odd or monotonous prosody of speech
• Overly formal and pedantic language
• Echolalia
• Pronoun reversal
• Visual thinking sometimes preferred
• Use of rote chunks of language
• Late or no development of spoken language
• Difficulty or inability to translate thoughts into words
• Poor use and understanding of nonverbal communication (i.e., facial expressions and body language)
• Taking things literally
• Delayed reaction to questions and other spoken words

Imaginative differences and repetitive adherence

• Concrete and literal use of language
• Difficulty with figurative language, metaphors and symbolism
• Preference for routine
• Focus on parts rather than whole; detail-oriented; may miss aspects of the whole
• Intensely passionate special interests

Sensory sensitivity

• Hyper- or hyposensitivity of the various senses
• Peculiar clothing and food preferences
• Stimming
• Fine or gross motor discoordination

Spectrum

The word spectrum conjures the notion of a continuum, such as a rectangle that transitions from white to black, or high to low functioning. This would be a serious oversimplification.

Autism has many different potential symptoms. Each autistic person may experience each symptom differently, and may not not have all of the symptoms. Autism has been compared to...

• An ice cream bar with various toppings
• A complex color wheel
• A field

Autism organizations may use rainbows to symbolize the diversity of people on the spectrum and hope for acceptance and support.

When comparing the Spectrum to the neurotypical community, Autism can be seen in contrast in the following ways;

• An aeroplane and a helicopter
• Computers operating with Windows and Linux

External links

• CDC's "Learn the Signs. Act Early.” campaign - Information for parents on early childhood development and developmental disabilities such as autism
• ASAN: About Autism
• Autistic Spectrum - A resource for High functioning Autism and Aspergers Syndrome
• Fact sheets on Autism & Asperger's: diagnosis, interventions, causes & behavior management
• Wrong Planet - A web community for those on the autism spectrum with an emphasis on support and advocacy.
• Autism Spectrum Disorders (Pervasive Developmental Disorders)
• Diagnosis, Education Advice, and Health Issues
• Weird Not Stupid - A website created from the perspective of a person who has two siblings who are on the Autism Spectrum with the goal of giving information to anybody who is seeking it.
• Autism Key - Established by and for parents of children with autism spectrum disorders. Offers research, support, news & media links and message boards.
• Autism Spectrum Disorders from ScienceDaily - Latest research news on autism spectrum disorders. Includes searchable archives.

References

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