Knowra Autism spectrum Autism spectrum Autism spectrum describes the varied developmental traits and support needs associated with autism. These vary among autistic people and can change with context, environment, and life stage.
Social communication : The use and interpretation of verbal and nonverbal signals to share information and build relationships. Differences in social communication are one core dimension of autism, though styles vary widely.
Autism diagnosis : A clinical determination that a person meets established criteria for autism. Diagnosis identifies a shared category without specifying an individual's full abilities or support needs.
Medical model of disability : A framework that locates disability primarily in an individual's impairment or health condition. It contrasts with spectrum accounts that also emphasize context and barriers.
Autistic culture : Shared practices, communication styles, and meanings developed within autistic communities. Community life gives the spectrum meaning beyond clinical descriptions.
Causes of autism : The genetic and developmental factors that contribute to autism, which are complex and not fully understood. Multiple pathways may help explain why autistic traits and support needs differ.
Repetitive behaviors : Repeated actions, speech, routines, or interests that can provide predictability, pleasure, or regulation. Restricted or repetitive patterns are another core dimension, and their forms differ among autistic people.
Autism spectrum disorder : A diagnostic category characterized by persistent social-communication differences and restricted or repetitive patterns. Clinical criteria name the condition whose presentations the spectrum describes.
Social model of disability : A framework that locates disability chiefly in social barriers and exclusion rather than individual impairment. It highlights how environments can turn autistic differences into disabling obstacles.
Identity-first language : Language that names a person as autistic rather than as a person with autism. Many autistic people prefer this wording because they regard autism as part of identity.
Autism prevalence : The proportion of a population identified as autistic within a specified period or age group. Changing estimates reflect identification practices as well as population patterns.
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