Autism: meaning, definitions and examples

Historical Origins

• The term ‘autism’ was first used in the 1910s by Swiss psychiatrist Eugen Bleuler to describe a specific aspect of schizophrenia.
• In the 1940s, American psychiatrists Leo Kanner and Hans Asperger studied children showing similar behaviors, leading to the separate identification of autism.
• The diagnosis has evolved over the decades, with the DSM-5 now recognizing it as a spectrum, covering a range of abilities and challenges.

Science

• Research suggests that genetic factors play a significant role in autism, with many individuals having family members with similar traits.
• Studies have identified differences in brain structure and function in individuals with autism, influencing how they process information.
• Environmental factors, such as prenatal exposure to certain drugs or infections, may also contribute to the likelihood of developing autism.

Pop Culture

• Various films and books portray characters with autism, often emphasizing their unique abilities, like in the movie 'Rain Man' which highlights savant skills.
• Television shows like 'Atypical' and 'Parenthood' portray the everyday lives of individuals with autism and their families, aiming to raise awareness.
• Famous figures thought to have displayed traits of autism include Albert Einstein and Nikola Tesla, showcasing diverse talents and perspectives.

Psychology

• People with autism may experience sensory sensitivities, leading to heightened awareness of sights, sounds, and textures around them.
• Study shows that individuals with autism often excel in areas requiring pattern recognition or detailed analysis, showcasing strengths alongside challenges.
• Social communication differences in autism can include difficulty understanding social cues or maintaining conversations, which can affect relationships.

Education

• Educational approaches for individuals with autism often emphasize tailored learning plans that cater to unique strengths and challenges.
• Many schools now implement inclusive practices, integrating support for students with autism into mainstream classrooms.
• Advocacy for neurodiversity is growing, promoting the idea that autism is a distinct way of thinking rather than a defect needing correction.

At position #14,388, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.

• ...
• 14385 unbalanced
• 14386 probabilistic
• 14387 rocked
• 14388 autism
• 14389 rigorously
• 14390 distract
• 14391 inflexible
• ...