Terms are important. And moving at a fast pace. Autism has a huge spectrum. Asperger’s Syndrome was moved to the autism spectrum as of 2013 when the DSM-5 was last updated, and the term is getting bad press as the history of Hans Asperger becomes more clear. But terms like High Functioning Autism automatically draw a comparison taking away some humanity from people who have more autistic characteristics. I work with clients whose characteristics are less significant, and there isn’t a delay in the development of language. I use the term Autism – if you prefer a different term please let me know and I can use that if we work together.
Sometimes referred to as the “genius gene,” people with autism have average or better-than-average cognitive skills.
Signs of Autism:
They may not understand conventional social rules or show a lack of empathy. (That doesn’t mean that don’t feel empathy; they often have loads of empathy!)
They may seem unengaged in a conversation and not understand the use of non-verbal gestures, facial expressions, tone of voice, sarcasm, humor, irony, subtleties of language, idioms, and puns. They may lack inflection, be overly formal, or speak too loudly or high-pitched. They tend to limit eye contact or touch others.
They often (although not as true for females) have a special interest that they have an expert’s knowledge of. They struggle with abstract concepts.
They have conversational challenges. They may not understand humor, irony, subtleties of language, idioms, and puns. They may lack inflection, be formal, or speak too loudly or high-pitched.
They like repetitive behavior patterns such as walking the same way to work or school, eating the same foods for meals, etc.
They may have less obvious simming, hypersensitivity to sound, light, taste, and texture, and social anxiety.
They may be hypersensitive to light, sounds, touch, and smells.
Gifts:
They have good rote memories. In fact, they can memorize information quickly and remember it for a long time.
They also tend to learn information quickly. They often learn to read at a younger age than their peers. They learn and think in a visual way.
They have logical thinking. They may have very good in science, engineering, and math. They are able to concentrate for extended periods of time when motivated.
They have a unique perspective and, therefore, an ability to see alternate problem-solving solutions.
They have an excellent eye for detail. With their good memories, they are precise.
They are honest and reliable. They are punctual. They are dependable in regard to schedules and routines.
They have an excellent sense of direction.
They have a strong adherence to rules. They tend to have a drive for perfection and order.
Resources Videos:
Temple Grandin – The World Needs All Kinds of Minds
Resources Websites:
Resources Meetup groups:
Resources Youtubers:
Resources Podcasts:
The Aspie World (yes, it is a podcast, too)
Sound like you:
Check out this self-quiz. This quiz is not a substitute for a diagnosis by trained mental health or medical professional.
