What is autism?

Autistic Spectrum Condition, sometimes known as autism, is a lifelong condition that affects how a person: communicates with, and relates to other people, and perceives the world.

There are several names for autism:

  • autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is the medical name for autism
  • autism spectrum condition (ASC) is used by many people instead of ASD 
  • Asperger's (or Asperger syndrome) is sometimes used to describe autistic people with average or above average intelligence.

For more information about autism, visit the National Autistic Society website.

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