On The Spectrum – Meaning, Origin & Usage
Today, we hear the phrase “on the spectrum” more and more. But the phrase is relatively recent, so when the phrase is used, it isn’t always understood. The good news however, is that this article is going to cover everything you need to know about it.
We will begin by explaining what the term means, before delving into the origins of the term. We will then discuss how the phrase is used, and some of the more common misconceptions around the term. Crucially, we will also cover how the words you use to discuss the phenomenon are of great importance if you wish to avoid causing offence. We’ll top that off with a section where we’ll answer your most frequently asked questions on the subject. By the end, you’re sure to feel like an expert on the subject.
And without further ado, let’s get straight to it.
Understanding the meaning of the term “on the spectrum”
The term “on the spectrum” is used to refer to someone who has autism spectrum disorder (ASD). ASD is a developmental disability that can affect a person’s social, communication, and behavioral skills. ASD is the correct medical term for autism.
ASD is described as being on a spectrum because there’s such a wide variety of symptoms with many people having severe autism while other people on the spectrum may have milder, or less problematic symptoms.
The symptoms that are the most noticeable for the friends and family of those with ASD are usually the behavioural ones around social communication and difficulties with interacting with others. This may include appearing not to look at or listen to other people who are talking, and not registering social cues, and not responding to what is being said in typical ways.
There can also be many other symptoms besides. This may include repetitive behaviours, having a lasting and intense interest in something, being upset by slight changes in their routine, and being more sensitive or less sensitive than other people to sensory input, such as light, sound, clothing, or temperature.
There are different types of autism spectrum disorders, including Autistic Disorder, Asperger’s Syndrome, PDD-NOS, Childhood Disintegrative Disorder, and Rett Syndrome. Moreover, the definition of autism spectrum disorder is ever-changing, and may continue to change over time as more is learned about the phenomenon.
Understanding “on the spectrum” vs “autistic” vs “Aspergers”
Very often, someone with ASD may not be 100% autistic, because autism is on a spectrum, which means it is on a sliding scale. Someone who has ASD cannot always be easily differentiated from people who are not on the spectrum. This is because they are high functioning. This means that they are able to function very well in terms of dealing with their symptoms, and performing very well socially.
Some high functioning people who can be described as being on the spectrum may not have been diagnosed with their condition as early as those with severe autism. For this reason, they may take offense if they are made to stand out for being different, because for a long time, they may not have realised that they even have a disorder.
Many people who are on the spectrum are able to lead very happy, full lives. They may even have special abilities and talents that other people don’t. Typical examples of this might include being able to learn things in detail and remember information for long periods of time, being strong visual and auditory learners, and excelling in math, science, music, or art.
There is also the term Asperger’s (or Asperger syndrome) which has been used by many people to describe autistic people with average or above average intelligence. That said however, this term is being phased out in favour of the terms ASD and being neurodivergent or “on the spectrum”.
Origins of the phrase “on the spectrum”
The term “on the spectrum” is derived from the work of the English psychiatrist Lorna Wing and her colleague Dr. Judith Gould in the 1980s. Wing is credited with developing the term “the autistic spectrum” to convey the wide range of variability in autism symptoms. Their work has led to revised estimates of the prevalence of autism in society, which had a significant impact on the number of people diagnosed and subsequently the support they received.
The term “spectrum” comes from physics, where it describes the range of colors in the visible light spectrum. The term “autism spectrum disorder” was first used in the fifth edition of the Diagnostic Statistical Manual of mental health disorders in the year 1994.
Most common uses of the phrase “on the spectrum”
Many people have been known to describe someone as being “on the spectrum” as a way of apologising for that person’s behaviour. Similarly, many people with ASD have been known to “come out” as being on the spectrum when they first meet someone new. This may be seen by some as apologising in advance for missing any social cues, or for coming across as being uninterested in socialising.
Common misconceptions about the term “on the spectrum”
Since ASD refers to Autistic Spectrum Disorder, many people wrongly assume that someone who is on the spectrum might be severely autistic. While this is possible, it is not always the case, as some people have mild ASD symptoms, or have very few symptoms, and are able to function as well as any neurotypical person.
Some people base their perception of ASD from what they see in films, such as Rain Man, starring Tom Cruise and Dustin Hoffman. Dustin Hoffman’s character is an autistic savant who adheres to strict routines, and has superb recall, but shows little emotional expression, except when in distress. Tom Cruise’s character takes advantage of the savant to make money quickly. The important thing to note however, is that being autistic or being on the spectrum does not automatically mean that that person is a savant or genius.
Another misconception around ASD arises from the belief that it is a linear phenomenon, like the electromagnetic spectrum. This is not the case however, and people with ASD can have a range of abilities and needs, and may present differently depending on their developmental stage and gender.
Why language matters when talking about the spectrum
These days there is much greater emphasis on social inclusion, which is about people feeling included in a community and welcome, rather than feeling singled out and ostracised. The language that we use in relation to ASD can play a big part in this.
For example, you should avoid calling a high functioning person with ASD “autistic”, because they might consider this inaccurate and possibly even offensive.
Other important terms in this discussion include “neurotypical” and “neurodivergent”. Someone can be described as neurotypical if they have a “normal” or typical brain, as opposed to being on the spectrum. It is important that neurotypical people are described as neurotypical rather than “normal” because this could inadvertently imply that people who are on the spectrum are not normal.
The term neurodivergent can be applied to anyone who is on the autism spectrum, but it can also be applied to anyone who has Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, or ADHD.
What to do if you suspect ASD in yourself or a family member
If you suspect that you, or someone you know, such as a family member may have ASD, then it is recommended that you make an appointment with your family doctor in order to be referred for assessment. If the assessment is positive, then there may be help available for you in your local area. It is important to seek an evaluation as soon as possible. The earlier ASD is diagnosed, the sooner treatments and services can begin.
FAQs
What are the causes and risk factors for ASD?
Risk of having ASD is greater for people who have biological relatives with the disorder.
How is ASD diagnosed?
Health care providers diagnose ASD by evaluating a person’s behavior and development. ASD can usually be reliably diagnosed by age 2. Diagnosis in young children is often a two-stage process. Stage 1 is a general developmental screening during well-child checkups, followed by Stage 2, which is an additional diagnostic evaluation. Diagnosis in older children and adolescents and in adults is more rare.
What treatment options are available for ASD?
Much treatment for ASD comes in the form of behavioral, psychological, educational, or skill-building interventions. There can also be medications to help cope with the likes of Irritability, aggression, repetitive behavior, hyperactivity, attention problems, and anxiety and depression.
Final word
So, to sum up, the term “on the spectrum” is used to refer to someone who has autism spectrum disorder (ASD). ASD is a developmental disability that can affect a person’s social, communication, and behavioral skills.
It is important to use the correct language around people with ASD, especially when discussing their condition, so as to ensure that you don’t risk causing any offence.
