When referring to autism as a "spectrum disorder" what do you mean?

Question

What is your definition of "spectrum disorder" for me I think of the severity of symptoms within the diagnostic criteria, some can be very mild symptoms, some can be severe. Other people think of it as from mildly quirky to severely affected. I'm curious as to how others define "spectrum disorder"

Answer 1

In basic terms, this means you can be a little autistic or very autistic. At the highest end of the spectrum is Asperger Syndrome, sometimes called “The Little Professor” syndrome. At at the lowest end of the spectrum is the disorder that’s most often called “classic autism,” which often includes mental retardardation. In between are a variety of pervasive developmental disorders including Rett syndrome, childhood disintegrative disorder, and pervasive developmental disorder not otherwise specified (PDD-NOS).

Not only is autism a spectrum disorder, but recent studies suggest that there may be more than one type of autism. While some autistic people have additional symptoms such as gastrointestinal issues, seizures and even mental illness, others have no such symptoms. The jury is still out on the question of "many autisms," so for now the term "autism spectrum" covers a very wide set of differences and disabilities.

Answer 2

Well both are right.  The autism spectrum refers to the range of symptoms and behaviors that autism can manifest as.    All disabilities are within that diagnostic criteria, if someone is not within in that diagnostic criteria they do not have the disability.  Asperger's syndrome is currently on the autism spectrum (this might change in the future) and many of people with asperger's syndrome just seem a little quirky, but that is with in the diagnostic criteria.  

We look at most disabilities as a spectrum now not just autism.  You cold have a severe learning disability or one barely noticeable, or anywhere in between.  But both ends of the spectrum is within in the diagnostic criteria or the person doesn't have the disability.  There is always that line because we use these labels to get people who need it services and help and there has to be a point in which someone doesn't have the disability because it doesn't cause any impairment to thier life.

Answer 3

You are right, a "spectrum disorder" is one that envelopes a "range" in symptoms/severity within a diagnostic criteria and there are several disorders that are now being considered "spectrum disorders".   An interesting thing about the autism spectrum specifically, is that  the severity of autism symptoms is not a reflection of the persons IQ.  A person can be "mildly autistic" and mentally retarded or appear "severely autistic" but have a very high IQ (although this is difficult to measure depending on individuals ability to communicate).  This in addition to the understanding that each individual and their challenges are unique, is a huge step towards improving the futures/standard of living for this percentage of the population that has previously been misunderstood!