Glossary of terms: R

Receptors

Black's medical dictionary, G Macpherson ed; 38th ed

Organs which may consist of one cell or a small group of cells which respond to different forms of external or internal stimuli by conveying impulses down nerves to the central nervous system, alerting it to changes in the internal and external environment.

Regression

Dictionary of mental handicap, M Lindsey

To go backwards. This usually refers to the loss of skills previously acquired, especially those basic skills related to early childhood.

Repetitive behaviour

The early origins of autism, P M Rodier
Scientific american, 2000, 282 (2) pp 38-45

Abnormally intense preoccupation with one subject or activity; distress over change; insistence on routines or rituals with no purpose; repetitive movements, such as hand flapping.

Respite care

Thesaurus of psychological index terms

Provision of care, relief or support to carers of physically or mentally disabled persons.

Rett syndrome

CaF directory of specific conditions and rare syndromes

A profoundly disabling neurological disorder which only affects girls. The girls appear normal at birth and acquire infant skills to the 9 to 12 month level. A slowing of development then occurs and regression, with loss of skills in speech and hand use and social withdrawal, begins at around one to three years. Motor development is severely impaired, with difficulty in planning and co-ordinating movement.

Ritualistic behaviour

Children with autism and Asperger syndrome: a guide for
practitioners and  carers, P Howlin

Ranges from simple stereotyped movements such as spinning objects, picking threads from carpets, flicking pieces of string, opening and shutting doors, spinning the wheels of toys through motor mannerisms - such as rocking, hand flapping or flicking - to more sophisticated and complex behaviours as IQ levels rise.

Rubinstein Taybi syndrome

CaF directory of specific conditions and rare syndromes

A genetic disorder where children usually have normal birthweights, but subsequent growth is poor and developmental delay is usual. The most striking feature is broad, sometimes angulated thumbs and first toes.

Related resources

• Glossary of terms: A
  
• Glossary of terms: H
  
• Glossary of terms: P
  
• Education jargon (England and Wales)
  
• Education jargon (Scotland)
  

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