Clinical psychologist reveals subtle signs of autism in adults that are often missed
Autism is often associated with childhood diagnoses, but many adults may be living with the condition without realizing it. Since autism is a spectrum disorder, its signs and severity vary from person to person, and in adulthood, these traits can be more challenging to recognize, per Tyla. Experts suggest that while children often exhibit clear indicators, adults may have spent years adapting and masking their symptoms, making diagnosis more complex.
Dr. Catherine Lord, a clinical psychologist and member of the Autism Speaks Medical and Science Advisory Committee, explains that diagnosing autism in adulthood requires a different approach. "Typically, we begin the process by meeting the adult virtually and talking to them about what they are looking for and why they want the assessment," she said, per Autism Speaks. If possible, obtaining childhood history from someone who knew the individual growing up can provide crucial insight. She explained, "Autism is a developmental disorder, so we are looking for something that has always been there but may not have caused difficulty until later in life." Moreover, the clinical psychologist revealed three signs that explain an adult might be suffering from a developmental disorder.
The first sign of autism in adults is trouble with communication. It can include both verbal and non-verbal communication. Many autistic individuals have difficulty maintaining eye contact, which they may find uncomfortable. Their conversations might focus on straightforward facts rather than social cues, making their responses seem direct or blunt. It can lead to misunderstandings, especially when they take sarcasm or jokes literally. Also, this can make everyday conversations more difficult, as they often have to work harder to pick up on subtleties that others might naturally understand.
The second sign is social situations, which can be challenging for adults with autism. Some may prefer spending time alone rather than in large groups, which can feel overwhelming. They might find it hard to understand how others feel or why they think a certain way, making it difficult to build close relationships. Even when they want to connect with others, they may struggle to navigate the unspoken social rules that come naturally to most people. As a result, they might feel isolated or misunderstood. It can lead to hesitation while interacting with others, making social settings more stressful.
The third sign in autistic adults is a preference for structure and routine. Changes in daily schedules can be distressing, and a strong attachment to specific patterns or habits is often observed. Many autistic individuals have deep, focused interests, dedicating a lot of time to specific topics they are passionate about. They might prefer doing things in a certain order and become anxious when that routine is disrupted. It can help them feel more in control, but it can also be challenging if life events force them to adapt. This ability to notice small details and patterns can be an asset in various fields, but it may also lead to fixation on certain routines or subjects.
While these characteristics can be present in autistic individuals, autism is a spectrum, and experiences vary widely. Some people may exhibit all these traits, while others may only relate to a few. It is important to remember that self-diagnosis is not sufficient for understanding one's place on the spectrum. If you or someone you know resonates with these experiences, seeking a professional evaluation can provide valuable insight and access to support tailored to individual needs.