I have followed with interest on here the many discussions re the diagnosis of ASD and the Traid of Impairments.
The body of knowledge and understanding of ASD has increased dramatically since the 70s, when I first learned a little about it. High functioning autism is relatively new, as a diagnosis. Mis-diagnosis still abounds, because of the overlaping symptoms with, Bipolar, Personality Disorder, OCD, Paranoia, Social Phobia, and I have no doubt, many other conditions.
Many of our accademics, psychiatrists, doctors and researchers, were training before the increased knowledge of ASD was available. Our thinking, as we age, is more likely to follow the old pathways, than to embrace the new, untried ideas. People stick to the proven diagnoses, with which they are familiar.
What we are in need of now, is research into these grey areas of diagnosis, such as the myriad of sensory issues from which many with ASD suffer. For example, the condition Auditory processing disorder, is recognised by those testing hearing, but not necessarily as part of ASD. This could be researched to discover to what extent it is a symptom of ASD or any other mental or physical conditions, or whether it is a "free standing" problem, occuring unrelated to other conditions. This approach could be taken with so many of the "grey area" symptoms of ASD.
There is a great shortage of money for everything. Students are often prepared to undertake work for very little money, to learn and to build a future career and indeed just to get the necessary qualifications to start their career. These students are young, open minded, impressionable and keen to make a difference. They are also the researchers of tommorrow. They will educate our grandchildren and treat their ailments and disorders.
The accademics of today are not listening to us, the NAS are not apparently listening to us. They have minds requiring evidence and proof.
Students often approach this site seeking help with their research. How ever flawed their motives, they want to listen, they need to do research, we could feed these young minds with our knowledge, experience and ideas. If they find us unwilling, unhelpful etc they may seek easier subjects to study.
If we cannot change today, we may at least be able to influence the future.
