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What is autism?

Autism is not a mental health condition or learning disability, although these can occur alongside. Autism is a 'type' of neurodivergence, meaning:

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  • differences in learning & thinking

  • differences in feeling

  • differences in speech, language, and communication 

  • differences in attention and cognition

  • differences in play 

  • differences in sensory processing

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Autistic people are often multiply Neurodivergent, meaning they can also be dyslexic, dyspraxic, and ADHD for example.

LANGUAGE: Autistic person? Person with autism?

"Person with autism" - person-first language

"Autistic person" - identity-first language

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The general consensus is that the Autistic community prefer identity-first language, so "Autistic person" rather than "person has autism / person with autism". Identity-first language helps to undo the societal stigma that Autistic people experience. However, that's not to say that every Autistic person prefers identity-first language. Not sure? Just ask the person.

1. Why is the preference "Autistic?" 

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Identity-first language makes it clear that being Autistic is an inherent part of a person's identity. in the same way you would say "Chinese person" or "gay person" - not "person with Chinese" or "person with gayness". It's about empowerment and is a radical shift from how society has viewed Autistic people. It's about social justice and challenging the ableist and stigmatising narratives that have sought to cure Autistic people from "their autism". It is imperative professionals use the language that autistic people prefer and listen to Autistic people.  

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2. How do we know this?
 

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LANGUAGE: Shifting away from the Medical Model

Language is powerful. It shapes people's beliefs. Deficit labels stigmatise Autistic people. The medical model of disability views autism as something that needs to be fixed and treated. 

The Neurodiversity Paradigm has its roots in a Social Model of disability and is radically different to a medical model. The social / neurodiversity paradigm focuses on removing barriers in society that exclude and oppress neurodivergent people.

  • impairments / deficits

  • autism levels e.g. 1-3

  • severe / mild autism

  • functioning labels (high, low)

  • symptoms

  • person with autism

  • attention seeking

  • challenging behaviour

  • challenges / difficulties

  • autistic person

  • characteristics

  • traits

  • strengths / needs

  • disabled / disability

Multi coloured autism infinity symbol
Medical Model
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What is autism?

Autism + Trauma

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Last updated: 10/02/25

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