Autism

Like a learning disability, autism is a lifelong condition. Autism is sometimes referred to as a spectrum, or autism spectrum disorder (ASD).

Autism is not a learning disability, but around half of people with autism may also have a learning disability.

ASD

Autism is often referred to as ASD or autism spectrum disorder.

There are three common features of autism, which might affect the way a person:

• interacts with others in a social situation
• is able to communicate with others
• experiences the world around them

What is Asperger's syndrome?

Asperger's syndrome is a form of autism which may also affect the way a person communicates and relates to other people.

People with Asperger's syndrome may experience challenges such as specific learning difficulties, anxiety or other conditions. However, people with Asperger's syndrome will not have a learning disability, as they will have an average or above average intelligence.