The world of ASD can be a confusing place for many, for example what is the difference between autism vs on the spectrum?

Is there a difference?

What do people mean by both terms?

Fear not, we’re here to help and provide you the clarity you may be looking for.

Autism basics

Autism, or otherwise known as ASD, is a complex condition that affects how individuals perceive the world.

It can also impact how they communicate, and interact with others.

People with autism can have varying degrees of difficulty in social interactions, communication, and behaviour.

Some of the common characteristics of autism may include:

Social challenges

Those with autism often have difficulty in understanding and engaging in social interactions.

This can include making eye contact, reading facial expressions, and interpreting social cues.

Communication struggles

Some children with autism may have delayed speech development. This can lead to their usage of alternative forms of communication, like gestures or picture systems.

Others may have exceptional language skills.

Repetitive behaviours

Many people with autism engage in repetitive behaviours or have intense interests in specific topics.

These behaviours can provide comfort and routine.

Examples of repetitive behaviours would be rocking, spinning or flapping their hands.

A preference for routine

Many of those with autism have a preference for routines and sameness in daily life is often observed.

This can include meals, journeys, daily schedules and many other activities.

Changes to routines can ultimately be distressing for some individuals with autism.

What is on the spectrum then?

When people say someone is “on the spectrum,” they are almost universally referring to autism.

This phrase indicates that the individual in question has either been diagnosed with autism or exhibits traits and characteristics commonly associated with autism.

It is the latter which is usually more likely.

Most people would simply describe someone who has been formally diagnosed as having autism.

Describing them as being on the spectrum implies that they may have characteristics but not necessarily a full diagnosis.

Additionally the use of “on the spectrum” emphasises that autism is a spectrum disorder.

This means it covers a wide range of abilities and challenges, and individuals with autism may vary in the severity and manifestation of their symptoms.

Sometimes the term “on the spectrum” is used by those who are unfamiliar with the disorder.

In many cases sadly it can be in a tone which is implying an insult.

For example if someone is shy and veers away from social events and interactions, they may be described as “on the spectrum”.

But as mentioned this may be coming from a place of ignorance. The individual in question may just not want to socialise, it will likely have nothing to do with autism.

What is the difference between on the spectrum and autism?

Ultimately if someone has autism then they are on the spectrum so it would be wrong to say there is a difference.

Where the differentiation lies is in the use of the terminology and what people are trying to say.

Stating that someone has autism is a very clear, firm statement which is closed to interpretation.

To the contrary stating that someone is “on the spectrum” covers a wide range of situations. As mentioned it could accurately mean that the individual has autism.

But also it could mean that the individual just as one personality trait which is common in those with ASD.

Is everyone on the spectrum?

This is a wider question which we have covered before on the site. It is many people’s belief that we are all on the spectrum in some respects.

The point behind their belief is that the spectrum is so wide stretching that everyone would fall somewhere.

It could be that you have a fondness for routine or predicability. Or it could be that you dislike foods of a certain texture.

Whatever the trait it is likely that everyone has something which is commonly present in someone with ASD.

Summary – Autism Vs On The Spectrum

To sum up, “autism” is the clinical term for Autism Spectrum Disorder.

While “on the spectrum” is a less formal way of referring to individuals who have autism or exhibit traits associated with it.

At times the term “on the spectrum” can be a throwaway comment, with no knowledge of the disorder. At others it can be used inappropriately to highlight a characteristic in a person.

Both terms highlight the diversity of experiences within the autism community.

The breadth of the terminology also explains the range of challenges and strengths that individuals with autism may have.