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A no from assessment?

Flutterby81

hi first time posting but have used the website so much!

we are finally at the assessment stage, taking place this week and next.  Part of me feels relieved but for the most part scared.  What if they say no he hasn't got asd?  He has seen alot of proffessionals previously who all said asd traits but they aren't allowed to say autism only the actual clinic can do this.  

He has one to one support at school- main stream.  Friends and family all know him as having autism and at school if anyone asks about his behaviour or why he has one to one we have just said that he's autistic and just needs a bit more support.  

Where do we go if 'they' don't think he has it?  Everything we have read screams that he has it.  His behaviour can be off the charts and we manage by using pecs and a rigid structure. So he does present as 'normal'. I am just so stressed and worried he and Us won't get the help.

would really appreciate some advice.

thank you

  • thankfully just had a yes!!

    thank you for your support!!  So relieved.

  • moonriver, you are totally right - 'mild autism' and its synonym 'high-functioning' are offensive and totally incorrect. If a person has autism, no matter what sub-group they fall into, they have autism, end of - no qualifier is needed. Or to turn the tables, are there any 'high-functioning' neurotypicals around?

  • This is a tricky one.. what is the value of a diagnosis?  Most importantly it tells you and everybody else [particularly the ones who cant see what we see and we all know who they are] what its not..it doesn't though necessarily mean more support [unfortunately].

    It should bring more understanding though not necessarily, asd traits makes me think of that much used phrase used by 'underfunded authorities' 'mild' autism..this term should in my opinion be outlawed, a loophole for lack of everything, care support understanding and respect.   Let us know how you get on...Good Luck

  • This is the most anxious and stressful time for you, because you have so much invested in getting the diagnosis. I was the same as my own assessment drew closer, it's only natural.

    Of course, all of your natural concern for your son is bound to highlight all of your fears too. It's a sign of how much you love and care for him. I think those fears for our children are always magnified by the 'what if?' part. If the answer is no, you can probably only see the process starting over, and being no nearer to an answer for your son, and that's horrible to think about.

    It is clear that you've done your research, so you're aware of the range of behaviours, and you wouldn't want to have him incorrectly diagnosed. We have to place some considerable faith in the assessors at the clinic, and that isn't easy to do. However, if your son is showing clear signs to other people, then they'll at least see what you do, and hopefully more. I can't see you coming away without a diagnosis of something in view of everything you say.

    I'm sure that we will all wish you the very best, and hope that you finally get the formal answer that you and your son need.