E – Autism Dictionary

Echolalia the repetition of sounds, words, or phrases, often mirroring what someone else has said. It’s a common part of language development in young children, but can also be a symptom of various conditions, including autism and Tourette syndrome.
Further reading: https://autismawarenesscentre.com/understanding-echolalia-in-autism-spectrum-disorders/

Elhers-Danlos syndrome Research continues to show that people with joint hyper-mobility, Ehlers-Danlos syndromes (EDS), and hypermobility spectrum disorders (HSD) are more likely to be autistic than would be expected by chance. A 2025 systematic review and meta-analysis by Carolina Baeza-Velasco et al, found that approximately 31% of autistic individuals exhibit joint hypermobility, and about 39% of people with EDS or HSD meet diagnostic criteria for autism. EDS is characterised by joint pain, hypermobility, vascular problems and unstable joints that dislocate easily.

Executive Dysfunction refers to difficulties with cognitive processes like planning, organization, and flexible thinking, which are crucial for daily tasks and overall functioning. It’s not a separate diagnosis but rather a common experience for many autistic individuals.

What is Executive Functioning? Executive functions are a set of mental processes that help us plan, organize, and manage our thoughts, actions, and emotions. These functions are essential for:

Planning and Organization: Deciding what to do, breaking down tasks, and sequencing steps.

• Initiation: Starting tasks and activities.

• Working Memory: Holding information in mind to complete tasks.

• Cognitive Flexibility: Shifting between tasks, adapting to new situations, and thinking about things in different ways.

• Self-Regulation: Managing emotions, controlling impulses, and staying focused.

Further reading: https://autismawarenesscentre.com/executive-function-what-is-it-and-how-do-we-support-it-in-those-with-autism-part-i/