Using the term ‘on the spectrum’ seems like an attempt at a middle ground for those who may feel uncomfortable with the word autism, straight up. I’d offer this could feel like a safer term for those worried about external reaction to the word autism. Even though that’s what it’s called, sticking to the center may be a way to go to avoid skepticism of NTs. I experienced a lot of this right up to my diagnosis at 57. And now that I’m diagnosed and have been validated, I say ‘autism’ proudly. Because the stigma has to stop.