The Autism Assessment

Yesterday I was looking at a useful link to details about the DSM assessment. I am on the waiting list, however many years left to wait for an assessment probably. 

I have a question for anyone who has a diagnosis. Over a year ago I completed the forms and other information, including evidence from my memory of early experiences. I also had a meeting following this where I was asked lots of questions and following that I was told they had enough evidence to go on the waiting list. 

My question is regarding the formal assessment. When my son had his, we watched from another room and this assessment involved activities and conversation. That bit is fine, but as an adult they have to be convinced that this was apparent in childhood. I was wondering therefore if I would likely be asked again for examples at that time. If so I need to keep a note of them when I remember, as I am likely to forget when I am there.

Parents
  • I struggled with examples from childhood. I had a vague sense of some autistic traits that were present but couldn't really come up with any concrete examples. I think, although I might be wrong, that what they are checking for is that the traits you have did not just arrive later in life (maybe as a trauma response?) so as long as you aren't saying that you were absolutely fine as a kid - fit in everywhere, no difficulties etc etc you will be OK with being a bit vague, if that's all you can be.

Reply
  • I struggled with examples from childhood. I had a vague sense of some autistic traits that were present but couldn't really come up with any concrete examples. I think, although I might be wrong, that what they are checking for is that the traits you have did not just arrive later in life (maybe as a trauma response?) so as long as you aren't saying that you were absolutely fine as a kid - fit in everywhere, no difficulties etc etc you will be OK with being a bit vague, if that's all you can be.

Children
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