Glossary

A term used to describe an observable ‘decline’ in abilities/behaviour; when applied to autistics, it is frequently attributable to the effects of autistic burnout, not regression in ability.

An extreme emotional response to real or perceived criticism or rejection, which manifests as intense emotional pain from even small social slights, leading to low self-esteem, social withdrawal, and avoidance of situations to prevent emotional pain. Symptoms can include hypervigilance, paranoia, perfectionism, intense shame, people-pleasing behaviours, and hypercritical rumination.

Thinking about negative situations, thoughts, feelings, or moments of ‘failure’ over and over without being able to control it and without reaching a functional resolution. It plays a part in developing Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria.