Autism is commonly said to involve a range of traits or to be a spectrum of individuals. Milder forms of autism are often referred to as Asperger’s Syndrome, after the doctor who first described the disorder. Like autism in general, Asperger’s Syndrome is a developmental disorder. However, the traits of Asperger’s often involve a “a handful of what many people would consider mere personality quirks” rather than severe effects (21). Like people with autism, people with Asperger’s display a diverse array of both capabilities and challenges.

Autism is a central theme in Temple Grandin and has been a primary influence on Grandin’s life. Autism is a developmental disorder that emerges in childhood and is marked by a range of traits, which can vary from person to person. However, common traits include the fact that “senses can overload easily,” feeling overwhelmed by touch, and being “prone to temper tantrums” (21-22). People with autism may also “focus so intensely on a few favored objects, subjects, or activities that it drives other people nuts,” including constantly talking about one subject, or repeating words and phrases (22). Finally, it is common for people with autism to have trouble “read[ing] others’ expressions or body language well” (23).