Glossary
Special | A | B | C | D | E | F | G | H | I | J | K | L | M | N | O | P | Q | R | S | T | U | V | W | X | Y | Z | ALL
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ResilienceThe ability to withstand hardship and to overcome adversity, becoming stronger and more resourceful as a result. | |
Restricted and Repetitive Behaviours and Interests (RRBIs)One of the two main diagnostic criteria for autism. RRBIs involve repeating the same physical activity over and over again, such as flicking fingers or watching the same video, sticking to the same routines and/or being exclusively interested in very few topics, or a single topic, for lengthy periods of time. | |
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Savant talentA term used for those with profound difficulties in most areas who display an exceptional talent in one area such as art or music. | |
Selective mutismThis is a condition, seen especially in children, in which a person does not speak or communicate effectively in situations where they do not feel comfortable, secure and relaxed. For instance, a child may not speak – or indeed attempt any communication – at school, yet do so at home with their close family. In many cases, selective mutism can be attributed to extreme social anxiety. When it occurs with autism, it may be part of a more fundamental communication problem. | |
Self-awarenessA person’s capacity to reflect on their own thoughts, feelings and traits. | |
SensorySensory is important first one | |
Sensory hypersensitivityHeightened
sensitivity to sounds, tastes, visual and other stimuli, compared with what
most people experience. Common in people on the autism spectrum. (See also sensory hyposensitivity.) | |
Sensory hyposensitivityReduced sensitivity
to sounds, tastes, visual and other stimuli, compared with what most people
experience. Common in people on the autism spectrum. (See also sensory hypersensitivity.) | |
Sensory overloadBroadly defined as a
state in which individuals are exposed to so many sensory stimuli, or to
stimuli at such high intensities, that they become unable to deal with them.
For instance, they may become very stressed and/or become unresponsive to
sensory input. In autism, hypersensitivity to sensory stimuli means
that a person may experience overload even for moderate levels of stimulation
that would not be disagreeable for a person without autism. | |