Autistic Spectrum Condition (ASC) is a lifelong developmental condition. The word spectrum is used because although those with ASC share similar difficulties they may be affected in different ways.
The main areas of difficulty which all people with AS share to varying degrees are:
Difficulties with Communication
A lack of desire to communicate.
Poor non-verbal communication such as eye contact.
Difficulty interpreting the non-verbal communication of others.
Superficially good spoken language but poor conversational skills and social awareness.
Lack of language and speech.
Excessive echoing of language used by another person.
Pedantic or very specific language.
Lack of tone in voice and interpreting meaning from others tone of voice.
Difficulties expressing feelings and emotions.
Difficulties with Social Interaction
Limited interaction with others.
Being interested in others to have their needs met
Showing some affection but on their terms.
Lack of motivation to please others.
Poor understanding of social rules and cues.
Socially isolated but not worried about it.
Difficulties with Imagination
Using toys as objects, for example focusing on the wheels on a toy car but not the car itself.
An inability to play imaginatively or think creatively.
Difficulty learning sequences of play.
May insist on certain routines and become resistant to change.
Repetitive play.
Learning things by rote but with limited understanding.
following rules rigidly and not allowing exceptions.
Associated patterns of behaviour
Extreme responses to sensory stimuli, e.g. noise / light / textures.
Difficulty with attention.
Difficulties eating, drinking, sleeping.
Difficulties with mood changes and understanding their emotions.
Increased anxiety in new situations.
Challenging behaviour.
