Autism is a complicated neurodevelopmental disorder that has an impact on a person’s communication, social interactions, and perception of their environment. While some people receive a diagnosis at a young age, others might go years without one and wonder why they feel different.
But can you have autism and not know it?
Well, the answer is yes. After all, autism presents itself differently in each person, and symptoms can vary widely. Some individuals may have subtle traits that aren’t immediately noticeable, while others may have learned to mask their differences.
Understanding the signs and seeking evaluation can lead to a better understanding of oneself and access to support and resources.
Masking Behavior and Misdiagnosis
Some individuals with autism are capable of masking their behaviors, which means they can camouflage their autistic traits and appear neurotypical. This ability to mask can make it challenging to identify autism, particularly in social situations or during brief observations.
Masking behaviors can include imitating or mimicking the behavior of others, suppressing stimming (repetitive behaviors), and consciously adapting their communication and social interactions to fit in with neurotypical norms. This masking can be mentally and emotionally exhausting for those individuals, often leading to burnout.
Misdiagnosis is another factor that can contribute to individuals not knowing they have autism. Children with autism may be misdiagnosed with other conditions, such as Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), which can result in delayed or missed autism diagnoses. Changes in autism definitions, gender bias, racial bias, and unequal access to healthcare can all contribute to misdiagnoses and the underdiagnosis of autism.
Studies have shown a significant disparity in autism diagnosis rates between males and females.
Compared to autistic males, females with autism are four times less likely to receive a diagnosis. The disparity could arise from the fact that women tend to display more functional social behaviors, which could mask their autism from others.
Additionally, societal stereotypes and biases can affect the recognition and diagnosis of autism in females.
Socioeconomic factors, such as income and race, also play a significant role in autism diagnosis. Research has shown that black children with autism are 2.6 times more likely to be undiagnosed compared to white children. Unequal access to healthcare and cultural differences in seeking help or support can contribute to these disparities.
Late Autism Diagnosis
While autism is typically diagnosed in childhood, there are cases where individuals may not receive a diagnosis until later in life. This results in adults not knowing they have autism until they undergo a diagnosis during adulthood.
Many individuals who receive an autism diagnosis in adulthood may have spent years navigating their lives without understanding why they felt different or faced unique challenges. These individuals often recount stories of struggling with social interactions, sensory sensitivities, and difficulties with communication throughout their lives.
Some autistic adults describe a sense of relief upon receiving their diagnosis, as it provides them with an explanation for the challenges they have faced. It can also be empowering, as it allows them to understand their strengths and weaknesses and seek appropriate support and accommodations.
Common Symptoms in Adults
Autism manifests differently in each individual, and the specific symptoms and challenges experienced can vary widely. However, there are common themes and patterns that may be observed in adults on the autism spectrum.
These are as follows:
It’s important to note that not all adults on the autism spectrum will display the same symptoms or challenges. Each individual’s experience with autism is unique, and diagnosis should always be made by a qualified healthcare professional or psychologist.
Signs of Undiagnosed Autism
Recognizing the signs of autism can be challenging, especially when it comes to adults who may have gone undiagnosed.
While autism presents differently in each individual, there are certain common signs that can indicate the presence of autism.
Social Mimicry
One sign that may indicate undiagnosed autism in adults is social mimicry.
Autistic adults may mimic the behaviors and mannerisms of individuals they socialize with, often adjusting their personalities based on those around them. This mimicry can make it difficult to identify their unique traits and challenges, as they may blend in with their social environment.
It’s important to note that this social mimicry is not a deliberate act of deception, but rather a coping mechanism that allows individuals with autism to navigate social situations more comfortably.
By mimicking the behaviors of others, they can camouflage their own difficulties and conform to social norms, reducing the chances of drawing attention to themselves.
Rigid Behaviors
Another sign of undiagnosed autism in adults is the presence of rigid behaviors. These behaviors can manifest in various ways, such as an intense need for routine and structure or an obsession with specific interests.
For example, an individual may insist on organizing items in a specific manner, exhibiting habits reminiscent of obsessive-compulsive disorder.
Rigid behaviors can provide a sense of comfort and predictability for individuals with autism, helping them navigate the complexities of daily life. However, these behaviors can also limit flexibility and lead to difficulties adapting to new situations or unexpected changes.
Communication Challenges
Communication challenges are a common characteristic of autism, and they can be a significant sign of undiagnosed autism in adults. Autistic adults may struggle with various aspects of communication, including eye contact, body language interpretation, and verbal expression.
Maintaining eye contact during conversations can be particularly challenging for individuals with autism. They may find it uncomfortable or overwhelming, preferring to look away or focus on other objects.
Additionally, difficulties in interpreting social cues and nonverbal communication can make it challenging for them to understand the intentions and emotions of others.
Furthermore, autistic adults may have a preference for written communication over face-to-face conversations. Written communication allows them more time to process information and formulate their thoughts, reducing the social demands and potential anxiety associated with direct interaction.
By recognizing these signs of undiagnosed autism, individuals and their loved ones can seek appropriate support and resources. It’s important to remember that autism is a spectrum disorder, and each person’s experience may differ.
If you suspect that you or someone you know may have autism, consider consulting with a healthcare professional who specializes in autism to receive a proper evaluation and guidance.