These are words frequently used on my blog, some researched, some made up to help me unravel a complex world. There’s loads of information online. I find this site full of useful information: The National Autistic Society.
Asperger’s = Shortened from High Functioning Asperger’s. Individuals on the Autistic Spectrum, considered more able to function in the world due to ‘better’ communication skills and usually without learning difficulties.
Aspie = friendly short form for Asperger’s.
Autism = A developmental brain condition characterised by certain traits which affect how an individual relates to their surrounds and other people. I see it as a difference in thinking to the general population.
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) = the umbrella term for all those with any level of Autism.
Avies = My own preferred friendly term for NTs. Short for ‘average’ – see here.
Neurotypical (NT for short) = the percentage of the population who do not have a brain condition such as Autism, ASD, Asperger’s etc. A person considered to be ‘normal’ (whatever normal is.)