What is Autism?

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You may see autism referred to by a number of terms. The official diagnosis is still Autism Spectrum Disorder, although many now prefer to use the term Autism Spectrum Condition. This is because autism is no longer seen as a "disorder" or a series of "deficits" (even though the diagnostic criteria are still sadly worded this way!) but as a range of differences and strengths making up a person's identity.

You may also see some terms which are no longer in use, such as Asperger's Syndrome. Descriptions such as high or low functioning are also outdated as autistic people will have many areas of strengths and difficulties just like anybody else.

Autism is a lifelong developmental condition which affects the way a person views the world and behaves within it. There is nothing "wrong" with being autistic, and there is no "cure". Diagnosis is based on a number of differences, namely in social communication and social interaction, as well as particular patterns of behaviour, activities or interests. 

People seek assessments for all sorts of reasons. They may have noticed differences in their social behaviour and relationships. They may have a strong preference for routine, predictability and sameness. They might have a number of interests which others describe as all-consuming. There could be a number of sensory differences. They might simply have always felt different to other people and been unable to put their finger on why. An autism assessment can help to make sense of these elements of who they are, leading to greater understanding and acceptance by themselves and those around them.