FAQs

What is Autism?

Autism is very complicated and varies a great deal from person to person. This is why people talk about an autistic spectrum. However, there are some characteristics that are common across the autistic spectrum. The three main areas of difficulty are known as the triad of impairments, and include:

• Social and Emotional - people on the autistic spectrum have difficulties with social relationships and interaction. They might not join in with group games or activities, may not understand things such as turn taking, or may appear to be 'in their own world'.
• Language and communication - children with autism may have trouble learning language and might take language very literally. People on the autistic spectrum will often have trouble understanding metaphors, jokes or idioms e.g. it's raining cats and dogs. They may repeat words or sounds; this is called echolalia. Language and communication also includes non-verbal communication, e.g. eye contact, facial expressions.
• Flexibility of thought - people with autism can find change difficult to cope with and may follow strict routines. Flexibility of thought also includes imaginative play

In addition to the triad of impairements, some people on the autistic spectrum may also have difficulties with: