Symbols For Autism: What Do They Mean? - Autism Spectrum Disorder Foundation (2024)

What comes to mind when you hear “Symbols for Autism?” If you’re familiar with this condition, at least to some extent, you’ll immediately think about the color blue, the infinity sign, or maybe even the butterfly. This isn’t surprising since, with the puzzle piece, all of these are popular symbols of the neurological condition.

That said, have you ever wondered what these symbols actually mean? You should know that these symbols weren’t just chosen because they look nice or for other frivolous reasons. Every symbol used to represent autism has its unique meaning.

In this article, we’ll plunge into the depths of autism symbolism and help you gain a better appreciation for this unique condition.

The autism puzzle piece is arguably the most popular symbolic representation of Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD). The idea behind the puzzle symbol is to convey the reality of how complex and diverse the condition is. It was first introduced by the National Autistic Society in 1963.

However, it should be said that currently, there’s some contention over the suitability of the puzzle piece as a representation of autism. Some people believe that this symbol is an all too close reminder of the fact that autistic individuals usually have trouble fitting into societal expectations.

The Autism Butterfly symbol is a colorful and beautiful improvement on the puzzle piece symbol. It also features the trademark puzzle pieces but with a much softer tone and design. As you would expect, it has fast become one of the most preferred symbolic representations for ASD.

Just like a regular butterfly grows and transforms from a caterpillar to a beautiful organism, the butterfly shape of this logo symbolizes change and the beauty of diversity. It is also an allusion to the importance of continual ability development for people with autism and the society at large.

The infinity symbol is used in several variations to represent different conditions. For autism, however, it is either rainbow-colored or solid blue. The rainbow color of the infinity symbol represents neurodiversityand infinite possible variations within the autism spectrum.

It also highlights that despite their challenges, the ability of people with Autism Spectrum Disorders to learn new things and grow is never-ending.

This symbol of autism features a shining bulb over a blue background. It is actually one of the most popular symbolic representations of autism, and it has been used in numerous campaigns. The symbol actually originated from Autism Speaks, a prominent autism advocacy association. However, it has now been adopted as a mainstay symbolic representation of the neurological condition.

The blue color of this symbol represents calmness and acceptance. It encourages individuals and communities to be more understanding and accepting of people with autism. The symbol as a whole also encourages people to speak out in support of and create more awareness for Autism.

The Light It Up Blue symbol is most commonly displayed on World Autism Awareness Day (April 2nd).

The rainbow spectrum symbol is the closest representation of ASD. The various colors on this symbol are a direct allusion to the complexity and diversity of the Autism spectrum. The Rainbow Spectrum is rarely stand-alone; instead, it’s often combined with other symbols of ASD for better visibility and emphasis.

Aside from the above symbols, there are also some other variations different organizations commonly use. This includes symbols like a blue heart to represent acceptance and love and the color red, whichis used to amplify awareness about the condition.