Understanding the Spectrum

If you (like many others) find the concept of the autism spectrum mildly confusing, the graphic to the left may help. Not everyone is “on the spectrum” – just those with an autism diagnosis!

It is called a spectrum because in all of the areas shown on this color wheel, every autistic person has a different level of deficit or ability. This means that every individual with autism has a one-of-a-kind experience and is uniquely located somewhere on the spectrum.

You may also enjoy this illustrated cartoon by artist Rebecca Burgess may be useful. Click to open the PDF:  Understand the Spectrum