Key Terms & Concepts

A neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by challenges with social communication, restricted interests, and repetitive behaviors. 

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Characteristics of the Population

Difficulty with verbal and nonverbal communication. Preference for routines and sameness. Sensory sensitivities
(over- or under-reactivity).

Cognitive processes that regulate goal-directed behavior, such as planning, organization, and task management.

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Characteristics of the Population​

Difficulty initiating tasks.

Poor time management.

Struggles with transitions and flexibility.

The process of interpreting and responding to social information.

 

Characteristics of the Population

Difficulty understanding social norms.

Challenges with reciprocal conversations.

Trouble adapting behavior to social contexts.

Atypical responses to sensory input, either hypersensitive or hyposensitive.

 

Characteristics of the Population

Aversion to loud sounds, bright lights, or certain textures.

Seeking sensory input (e.g., spinning, squeezing).

Difficulty with sensory integration.

Practical academic skills that support independent living and real-world success.

 

Characteristics of the Population

Focus on life skills (e.g., reading schedules, basic math for shopping).

Use of adaptive tools or methods.

Prioritization of individualized goals.

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) often manifests differently in females than in males, which can result in under-diagnosis
or misdiagnosis.

 

Characteristics of the Population

Better masking of symptoms.

Strong focus on social relationship.

Interests that appear socially typical

(e.g., animals, literature)

The ability to understand others’ thoughts, feelings, and perspectives.

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Characteristics of the Population

Difficulty predicting or understanding

others’ actions.

Challenges in perspective-taking.

Struggles with social cues.

Other disorders or conditions that often accompany ASD.

 

Characteristics of the Population

ADHD, anxiety, or depression.

Learning disabilities.

Gastrointestinal or sleep issues.

Intense emotional responses caused by overwhelming stress or sensory overload.

 

Characteristics of the Population

Loss of control (not intentional).

May include crying, yelling, or physical behaviors.

Often requires a quiet, safe space to recover.

A perspective that focuses on identifying and utilizing an individual’s strengths and abilities, rather than emphasizing deficits or challenges.

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Characteristics of the Population

Encourages self-confidence and empowerment.

Builds on existing skills to promote growth and independence.

Reduces stigma by focusing on potential rather than limitations.

Supports positive relationships and fosters a sense of achievement.

Helps individuals leverage their talents in academic, social, and personal areas.

Discrimination or prejudice against individuals with disabilities, favoring able-bodied norms.

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Characteristics of the Population

Bias in societal systems and attitudes.

Limited accessibility or accommodations.

Focus on "fixing" disabilities rather than inclusion.

A term describing the inability to attribute mental states to oneself or others.

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Characteristics of the Population

Difficulty understanding emotions or intentions.

Misinterpretation of social interactions.

Limited empathy for abstract feelings.

Heightened sensitivity to emotional stress or stimuli.

 

Characteristics of the Population

Intense reactions to minor stressors.

Difficulty regulating emotions.

Increased likelihood of anxiety or depression.

Exceptional ability or intelligence in one or more areas, sometimes coupled with challenges.

 

Characteristics of the Population

Advanced skills in specific subjects.

Uneven development in academics, social, or emotional areas.

May mask ASD traits in some cases.