Making Sense of Autism Terminology

Whether you are autistic or have friends and family who are, getting to know the terminology and having a stronger understanding of what it all means can help you in so many ways. I want to highlight ten terms that I find particularly important when getting to know us or to know ourselves better. No matter what, education is always the first tool to help bring awareness and betterment to everyone.?

Person–First?

This way of talking is seen when people say, “Child with autism.” People might use this because it shows the child’s identity outside of the diagnosis, showing that their autism does not define them. Person first language is often perceived as the most respectful way to talk about people with disabilities, but asking those around you (and yourself) what they prefer is always important. I don’t use person-first language for myself but may use this interchangeably when talking about groups of people or an individual who prefers it.

Identity–First

In this language, people are likely to use the word “autistic” to describe themselves or others as they believe it should not be seen as a diagnosis or disorder and should be respected as part of their identity. Identity first language focuses on how autism should be viewed as a difference and a form of neurodiversity. Like person–first language, it is important to ask what individuals prefer. I use identity-first language when talking about my own autism.?

If you’re caught up in language dynamics, think about the other ways you describe yourself in your life. For instance, I have red hair. Saying I have red hair would be person-first language while saying I’m a redhead would fall under identity-first. You may feel more comfortable one way or another,

Neurodivergent?

The term neurodivergent comes from Kassiane Asasumasu and refers to individuals whose brains work more unexpectedly than what is considered to be “typical” in accordance with societal customs and traditions This can be anyone who has identified with autism, ADHD, dyslexia, or any other cognitive condition that affects an individual’s brain responses. On the other hand, neurotypical is the term for those whose development is considered “normal” or “typical” or are not on the autism spectrum.?

Special Interests?

Special interests are one of the most common characteristics of autistic people. It revolves around the individual having a highly focused interest in a particular topic. These interests and passions can start in childhood or even develop and change over time. Special interests can be formed from a movie, TV show, book, animal, technology, and really anything at all that someone might get intrigued about. These interests can ultimately be a positive force within an individual’s life and help them develop life skills, define identity, influence career paths, and make friends.

Self-Stimulating Behavior (Stimming)?

Stimming is where a neurodivergent individual engages in repetitive behavior that helps soothe, ground, or entertain them. It can help in moments of overstimulation and stress or bring joy. Stimming can look like clapping, snapping, rocking, playing with a fidget toy, or moving around in certain ways. It can look different for everyone.?

Scripting

Scripting can be seen as a form of communication for neurodivergent individuals. It can also be used for sensory regulation and simply as a stim of enjoyment. Scripting is the act of repeating phrases, words, or sounds from the media. This can be anything from lines from a movie to words in their favorite books.?

504 Plan?

A 504 plan gets its name from Section 504 of the Federal Rehabilitation Act of 1973. This section clearly states that students with mental or physical disabilities are entitled to accommodations to ensure academic success. This can be anything from changes to the environment or curriculum to personal needs while learning. A 504 plan protects the students’ rights.?

Individualized Education Plan (IEP)

Under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), an IEP is a collection of documents that detail a student’s strengths, weaknesses, and goals, helping to create a comprehensive, custom record of the student’s education. An IEP is the next step to ensure the student has an individualized education accommodating their classroom needs in public school. An IEP will assess students’ needs depending on their mental or physical disabilities and develop a personalized plan to ensure they get the most out of their education.?

In regards to the difference between a 504 plan and an IEP, there are many things to tell them apart. An IEP is a specific and personalized plan for a child’s special education evaluated by a team of professionals, while a 504 plan is a plan on how the school will provide support for a student’s special education based on an evaluation that looks into the student’s medical history, academic performance, and other necessary qualifiers. An IEP specifically aims to achieve academic and functional goals for the student, while a 504 is not as goal-oriented from student to student. Both are legally binding documents, but an IEP has more options for the parents if there is a violation.?

Splinter Skill?

A splinter skill is a skill stronger than others. This could be anything from being highly versed in the statistics of a sport without understanding the sport whatsoever or being able to play a piece of sheet music but without a general understanding of how to play the instrument otherwise.?

Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD)

SPD is considered common among those in the neurodivergent community. Essentially, it is a neurological condition when the brain can not process sensory signals adequately. For example, some food textures might be worse than others, clothes are scratchy or itchy, sounds seem too loud and overwhelming, or lights seem too bright.?

These are only a few of the terms that can help individuals both in and out of the neurodivergent community better understand. I’d be happy to talk about more or speak on a more specific matter. If you have questions or are interested in hearing me speak at an event of yours, message me or contact me through my website, Haley Moss.?

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