Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Autistic Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿงฉ
Add to dictionary

autistic

[ษ”หหˆtษชstษชk ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

mental condition

The term 'autistic' refers to individuals who have autism spectrum disorder (ASD), a developmental disorder characterized by challenges with social interaction, communication, and restricted or repetitive behaviors. Autism can manifest in various ways, affecting how a person perceives the world and interacts with others. People who are autistic may exhibit a range of abilities, from high-functioning individuals with exceptional skills to those who require significant support. The understanding of autism has evolved, leading to a greater appreciation of neurodiversity and the different ways individuals may experience and navigate their environments.

Synonyms

ASD, autism spectrum, neurodiverse.

Examples of usage

  • Many autistic individuals have unique talent in specific areas.
  • Understanding autistic behavior is crucial for better communication.
  • Educational systems need to adapt for autistic students.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Autism is considered a spectrum disorder, which means it affects people in many different ways, and no two individuals are the same.
  • Common characteristics include challenges with communication, social skills, and repetitive behaviors, but many also have exceptional skills in specific areas.

Pop Culture

  • Several popular movies and TV shows feature characters with autism, such as 'Rain Man' and 'Atypical', helping to raise awareness and understanding.
  • Many famous figures, like Albert Einstein and Mozart, are speculated to have been on the autism spectrum because of their unique talents and thought processes.

Education

  • Inclusive education strategies are important for children with autism, allowing them to learn alongside peers and receive tailored support.
  • Specialized programs and interventions can greatly improve social skills and learning outcomes for autistic individuals.

History

  • The understanding of autism has evolved significantly since the 1940s, when it was first clinically identified by psychiatrist Leo Kanner.
  • In the early days, autism was often misunderstood, leading to negative stereotypes, whereas now there is a greater awareness of neurodiversity.

Origin of 'autistic'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'autism' comes from the Greek word 'autos', meaning 'self', reflecting a focus on one's own thoughts and feelings.
  • It was first used in the early 20th century in the context of mental health, particularly to describe children who were isolated or withdrawn.

The word 'autistic' is derived from the Greek word 'autos', meaning 'self'. The term was first introduced in the early 20th century to describe a condition that was perceived as an introspective or 'self-focused' behavior. Swiss psychiatrist Eugen Bleuler is credited with coining the term 'autism' in 1911 as a way to describe symptoms he observed in patients with schizophrenia, emphasizing their withdrawal into a world of their own. However, it wasn't until the late 1940s and early 1950s that 'autism' began to be associated specifically with children, thanks in large part to the pioneering work of American psychiatrist Leo Kanner, who described a condition in children that would later be understood as autism spectrum disorder. The understanding and terminology surrounding autism have evolved significantly over the decades, leading to a more nuanced perspective that recognizes the diversity of autistic experiences and the importance of acceptance and support for individuals on the spectrum.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #19,566, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.