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Question: Is it possible that i have high functioning autism?

(Posted by: j dddddd on 2007-12-24 11:38:29)

Is it possible that i have it even though i've never been diagnosed? (i am in my 20's) what is adult life like for a person with high functioning autism?

Posted by: notyou311 on 2007-12-24, 11:50:47

You need to be tested.

Posted by: Psycrimes on 2007-12-24, 12:46:18

It is possible to have a High Functionning Autism? Yes Do you have it? There is only one way to know, go see a doctor. You should never try to diagnose yourself.

Posted by: mysatch on 2007-12-24, 22:10:14

Yes. Asperger's syndrome is a high functioning form of autism. People with this are generally very intelligent but lack many social skills needed to function appropriately in our so called normal society. Loud noises, large crowds, facial expressions used to express feelings (such as a smile for happiness or even crying for unhappiness) or even understanding or acknowledgeing others emotions and feelings are difficult for the Asperger's person. My 7 year old niece has been diagnosed with this disorder. Many bystanders in public don't understand; she is viewed as a spoiled nondisciplined child that needs a good spanking. This aspect of discipline does not phase her. Physical and emotional pain is not expressed. Through my readings on the disorder it is often found in older children and even adults. Asperger's was not identified as a diagnosis or disorder years ago. Through increased awareness and understanding of Asperger's over the years many children are now adults that are just recently being recognized as high-functioning autistics.

Posted by: Meng on 2007-12-27, 21:48:03

It's possible, yes. Try reading Tony Attwood's "The complete guide to Asperger's Syndrome " and see whether that sounds like you or not. Also try hanging out on some Aspie forums or mailing lists for adults. See if you fit in. There are also some tests online that can give an indication as to whether it's likely or not that you have an ASD. The more you read about ASDs, the clearer it should become whether you have one or not. It's also possible that you just have some autistic tendencies but not a full-blown ASD. If you don't have an ASD you'll probably get bored with reading about itpretty quickly because it just won't ring a bell. If you want an official diagnosis, you should see an atism expert, but that'll cost you like $500 or so. Warning... most psychs and doctors don't know enough about Asperger's to diagnose it, so either go with your own informed opinion or see an autism expert. Asperger's wasn't in the DSM-IV until iirc 1994, and even after that it took a few years for educators, psychs etc to become familiar with it (and many still aren't), so if you're in your 20s you might very well have it without having been diagnosed sooner. All auties are different, btw.