Expert: Paul Johnson - 11/27/2009

Question
Hi
I see that you were diagnosed at a later age.
I will try to keep this short.(I tend to ramble)
Basically,my son was diagnosed with AS. I noticed I had some of the same symptoms,but not all.I also have some serious sensory issues.Mainly just certain things I touch or the feeling of certain fabrics. My question is,how do I get a correct diagnosis at the age of 32? I know the steps to getting a diagnosis of course,but I believe some of the things they look at to make a diagnosis I have already taught myself to adjust to over the course of my life. For ex.,if they ask about social problems,I may have had them at one time but because of being in alot of social situations have learned to deal and it comes second nature now. Making eye contact still bothers me but I have learned to cope. I still have definite problems. If people come over to viit us ,I feel a compelling need to leave the room until they are gone. I have no idea why. So what are some suggestions that you could make or how did you get your diagnosis. Sorry in advance,I know you have probably heard this question a million times. Thanks.

Answer
Hey Tiffany,

This is not only an excellent question it is a first for me to receive. The subject of adult diagnosis is one that gets overlooked alot because we are dealing with a developmental diagnosis. The issue of Autism is considered a childhood issue, as such it is garnering alot of interests for children.

Well children grow up and high functioning Aspies go overlooked for a long periods of time. The crux of your question centers around not only the person's ability to make adjustments for our shortcomings but what happens when we encounter a new "wrinkle" in a social situation. These are the times we might not know how to act and guess incorrectly. When this happens and people see out unusual behaviors we are exposed for being different.

This is the plight of the adult with undiagnosed high functioning Asperger's. We naturally teach our self how to make adjustments and how to act in ways that fit into the bigger group. For me this was even more natural becasue I grew up in the 60's an African-American and having to fit in among White people was a big concern at the time. We on the Autism Spectrum of Disorders have to know when to get additional assistance for the frustration that will come when we are not any longer able to figure things out.

This is when I decided to get my diagnosis. Why don't you enter an adult with Asperger's group in your area. Once you sit on a group, see how much you have in common and how well they receive you as one of them. This can be very reassuring to know you have found your culture. Mozart and the Whale is an excellent film depicting the mannerism and actions of adult Asperger's in group and in everyday interactions.

Remember most people on the spectrum do not even realize they are. By entering a social group of peers you will have more evidence of where you belong than a diagnosis and of course you can still pursue of diagnosis afterwards.