Here are some words related to the Autistic Culture. More will be added as we go on. Feel free to let me know if you see a mistake, or have a word to suggest.
Autism or Autistic Spectrum Disorder [ASD]: A spectrum of neurological anomalies primarily to do with difficulties in communication and social interaction. The effects vary widely in intensity and combination. It includes more specific classifications like Aspergers Syndrome, Rett Syndrome, and Pervasive Developmental Disorder. It appears to be genetic, and therefore not an illness, and therefore not curable. It is, however, very treatable. Many Autistics can be helped to communicate in non-traditional ways, and often turn out to be remarkably intelligent. [Diagnostic Criteria from Internet Health]
Aspergers Syndrome: A form of Autism defined primarily by the absence of a delay in speech in childhood. Those with Aspergers are often called “Aspies.” [Diagnostic Criteria from Internet Health]
Chelation: A technique for removing heavy metals from the body - used by some doctors or parents of Autistics to “treat” Autism. It has not been shown to be effective against Autism, but the fact that some children learn to cope with some aspects of the world, during the same period as the chelation therapy, makes these parents believe the two are related. [Wikipedia article]
Neuro-Typical [NT]: those who are not on the Autistic Spectrum. They might be called “normal” except for the negative connotation that those on the spectrum are abnormal.
Perseveration: an activity or interest that is intense and repetitive. This is a common aspect of those on the Autistic Spectrum. Perseverations can range from physical repetitions - or “stims” - to deeply focused studies and interests, sometimes leading to a remarkable, specialized expertise. Like stims, perseverations seem to be methods for regulating the nervous system or hormones in the brain.
Stim: (from “stimulation”) physical or vocal mannerisms performed by those on the Autistic Spectrum. Used, both voluntarily and involuntarily, to mitigate or increase stimulation to the nervous system.
