How is Autism Diagnosed?

The process of diagnosing autism involves a comprehensive evaluation, including observations, interviews, and assessments tailored to each child’s unique behaviors and developmental patterns. Since every child is different, the diagnosis considers a wide range of factors to understand their specific strengths, challenges, and needs. 

When should autism be diagnosed? 

‍Although the exact cause of autism is unknown, there is research that supports the benefits of early diagnosis and treatment for autistic children. Early intervention provides developmental support for communication and social skills during a crucial period of growth for young children. Ideally, the earlier symptoms are identified and treated, the better! 

‍How is autism diagnosed? 

‍‍Most parents are referred to a child psychiatrist or psychologist, pediatric neurologist, or developmental pediatrician for an autism assessment, likely from their doctor who has already identified some autistic symptoms or due to parent concerns. An evaluation of autism is based upon observation of interactions and behavior, responses to structured questionnaires, a detailed history, input from caregivers, review of prior assessments (speech, hearing, learning etc.), medical and developmental history, and expert clinician assessment.    

The actual criteria for autism spectrum disorders are specified in a reference manual called the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Illnesses or DSM-5, which clinicians rely upon to determine whether a child is on the autism spectrum. The DSM-5 is a standardized reference book all clinicians use to explain and diagnose mental and brain-related disorders including autism spectrum. The book is complex and only used by trained clinicians or medical professionals. Below are the components of a diagnostic evaluation for autism, though assessments vary depending on individual: 

• a standardized tool for autism used to determine if a child meets DSM-5 criteria for a diagnosis such as the Childhood Autism Rating Scale (CARS), Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS), Social Responsiveness Scale (SRS) or others 
• clinical observation of how your child communicates and interacts with others (parents, siblings, clinician) by providing your child with structured activities to evaluate how they perform 
• comprehensive neurodevelopmental, medical and family history
• assessment of communication, motor skills, cognitive abilities, and adaptive behavior (age-appropriate daily living skills)
• review of medical tests including hearing evaluation 
   

Autism assessments can be done in-clinic or virtually, allowing options and flexibility for every family with the same degree of accuracy in most cases. 

‍What happens after a diagnosis? 

‍After a diagnosis, there are usually two stages: 1) understanding and accepting a new condition, and 2) moving forward with ongoing therapies to help ensure a successful future for your child. 

Many things can happen after a diagnosis - it's oftentimes uncharted territory for an entire family and can bring big emotions like grief, anxiety or panic. It is completely acceptable to take time to reflect and digest.  It's also a great time to learn about autism and invest in autism communities or support groups. 

When you and your child are ready, developmental therapy is an excellent option for any child with autism. The model focuses on your child’s social, emotional, and functional development using their preferred communication style and favorite activities or toys. The play-based approach uses their natural curiosity to support development at their own pace in a variety of settings. 

Lisa Smith is a blogger who shares her journey as a mother of seven, including one child with autism. In this post, she offers her "Do's and Don'ts" following an autism diagnosis, providing helpful insights for families navigating a recent diagnosis. 

How does someone live with autism?

‍‍Although individuals with autism may experience challenges in areas that others do not, they can still live a very successful and fulfilling life. Some people with autism may experience difficulties communicating, changes in routines, sensory input or social interactions. Early diagnosis and treatment can help a child develop in these areas and form habits to regulate properly, communicate clearly and engage in everyday activities. It is also important to remember that individuals on the autism spectrum can have unique talents and gifts in certain areas too. There are many reports and stories about extraordinary talents in music, science, math, art and a general ability to see things differently in a way that adds to our understanding of the world. 
 
Your involvement is essential for your child's progress, and we know it can be overwhelming. At Positive Development, we provide diagnostics, tailored therapy and 1:1 parent support for open, judgment-free discussions. Our goal is to enhance harmony at home while supporting both you and your child as a team through the entire journey of autism, from the start all the way to teenage years.