Neurodiversity – Autism

What is Autism?

Autism is a lifelong neurodevelopmental difference that shapes how a person communicates and interacts with other people, as well as other areas such as how people move (Forster et al., 2016). Autistic people often thrive with predictability and routine and may develop deep and passionate interests that are a source of emotional regulation or self-expression, referred to as ‘special interests.’ Autistic people may also appear less flexible to others, and this rigidity is often to support their own well-being.

Autism is not an illness or disease to be ‘cured’

It is important to know that Autism is not an illness or disease to be ‘cured.’ It is a natural difference in how the brain works. However, it is generally seen as a disability because autistic people experience a variety of difficulties that can have a significant impact on their daily life and quality of life. This is usually because autistic people’s brains work differently to neurotypical people, and the world is designed around neurotypical people. Nevertheless, with the right support, understanding and adjustments, autistic children can flourish and live fulfilling lives.

How common is autism?

The World Health Organisation estimates that 1 in every 100 children is autistic. This figure may be an underestimate of the true prevalence because it is being recognised more in girls and women nowadays, who have historically been undiagnosed.

Causes of autism

We still don’t understand fully the causes of autism and research is still ongoing. Many experts believe that there isn’t one specific ’cause’, and that there are genetic factors.into environmental and genetic factors.

Autistic traits

Autistic traits are experienced uniquely by each individual, reflecting differences in the human mind. Autism encompasses a spectrum of differences in communication, sensory perception, behaviour, cognition and emotional responses. Each autistic person has a distinct profile of strengths, needs and ways of engaging with the world.

Abilities and challenges

All people have varied abilities and challenges, but this is more pronounced for neurodivergent people, including autistic people and those with ADHD. Autism and ADHD tend to be described as ‘spectra’ which can sometimes be difficult to understand.

Is everyone a little autistic or has a bit of ADHD?

Sometimes people mistakenly say that ‘everyone is a little bit autistic’ or ‘everyone has a bit of ADHD’. Whilst people may be trying to express empathy, this idea may be hurtful, and it risks minimising the experiences and support that autistic and ADHD individuals encounter.

Autism and ADHD are better understood as a group of different traits and experiences made up of many spectra. For example, one person may have heightened sensory sensitivity, and the other may find social communication more difficult. Similarly, one person with ADHD may struggle with attention, while another may experience impulsivity difficulties. This doesn’t make one person ‘more autistic’ or ‘more ADHD’ than another; it just reflects the way different neurotypes can manifest.

No two autistic people or people with ADHD are alike

Both autism and ADHD can present in a wide range of ways across different individuals, influenced by personal strengths, challenges, environments, and life experiences. Recognising this diversity helps move us away from stereotypes and encourages a more individualised, respectful understanding of neurodivergence.

Diagnosis of Autism

Before meeting the child for a neurodevelopment assessment forms will be sent out to parents and the school to gain a better understanding of the young person. in different settings and ensure the diagnosis is holistic. At this stage ,the young person, parent and school will also fill out pre-screening questionnaires. Additionally, the parent and young person will also have to rank an anxiety and depression scale to assess the  young person for any mental health concerns. This is important to help the clinician differentiate traits displayed due mental health or neurodivergence, within the neurodevelopmental assessment stage.