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Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders

Gepubliceerd in:

09-07-2021 | Original Paper

Choose your Own Adventure: Pathways to Adulthood Autism Diagnosis in Australia

Auteurs: Yunhe Huang, Samuel R. C. Arnold, Kitty-Rose Foley, Julian N. Trollor

Gepubliceerd in: Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders | Uitgave 7/2022

Abstract

Pathways to diagnosis in adulthood are poorly understood. Even less is known about undiagnosed adults who believe they may be autistic. This mixed-methods online survey examined adults’ journeys from initial concern to receiving the diagnosis. Quantitative findings showed the diagnostic process to be highly heterogeneous. Qualitative analysis identified desires for explanation and support as motives for seeking diagnosis. Cost and fear of not being taken seriously were major barriers, echoed by qualitative responses that described the process as confusing, expensive and time-consuming. While most participants were satisfied with the diagnosis, their emotional reactions were complex. Findings support the need for thoroughly implementing national guidelines, and for improved knowledge and communication in mainstream clinicians encountering clients with possible autism characteristics.

vorige artikel Conversation During a Virtual Reality Task Reveals New Structural Language Profiles of Children with ASD, ADHD, and Comorbid Symptoms of Both

volgende artikel Predictors of the Quality of Life of Informal Carers of Adults on the Autism Spectrum

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Following initial use of the term autism spectrum disorder, we use Identity-first (“autistic person”) and neutral (“on the autism spectrum”) terminology throughout based on participants’ preferences.

Due to sample size and complexity of non-binary gender categories, only male and female participants were included in analyses involving gender.

Missing data was excluded.

Excluded one participant with self-reported age of first suspicion older than age of diagnosis.

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Titel: Choose your Own Adventure: Pathways to Adulthood Autism Diagnosis in Australia
Auteurs: Yunhe Huang
Samuel R. C. Arnold
Kitty-Rose Foley
Julian N. Trollor
Publicatiedatum: 09-07-2021
Uitgeverij: Springer US
Gepubliceerd in: Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders / Uitgave 7/2022
Print ISSN: 0162-3257
Elektronisch ISSN: 1573-3432
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10803-021-05169-4

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