About Autism
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurological and developmental disorder that affects how people interact with others, communicate, learn, and behave. Autism impacts everyone differently; sometimes in very visible ways, and other times in very subtle or invisible ways. People of all genders, races, ethnicities, and economic backgrounds can be diagnosed with ASD.
Many people with Autism experience sensory challenges that can cause them to be overwhelmed and experience anxiety. Autistic individuals often demonstrate differences in information processing or thinking style, which impacts learning and behavior. It is common for Autistic children or adults to engage in repetitive actions, like rocking, hand flapping, blinking, etc. Often, these actions serve to regulate the person during times of sensory or emotional overwhelm. Personal passions or highly focused interests are also common in individuals with Autism, and these interests are often intensely important to one’s feelings of safety and comfort in a chaotic world.
Despite how often this question comes up, there’s not a quick straightforward answer because everyone’s unique. We like to say- “when you’ve met one person with Autism, you’ve met one person with Autism”. There is a vast combination of traits that Autistic people can have, or lack, to varying degrees. Generally people with Autism will possess these three traits:
More examples of potential Autistic traits include:
This is not an exhaustive list, nor is it meant to be a diagnostic tool.
To learn more about Autism, check out our New to Autism guides
These booklets include information about:
These booklets include information about:
