New study finds online self-reports may not accurately reflect clinical autism diagnoses. Adults who report high levels of autistic traits through online surveys may not reflect the same social behaviors or clinical profiles as those who have been formally diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder.

[u/mvea]

https://www.psypost.org/new-study-finds-online-self-reports-may-not-accurately-reflect-clinical-autism-diagnoses/

[u/harpweaver]

Thank you for this. After a lot of research I determined I was on the spectrum, then in order to verify I requested an official medical assessment. My psychologist told me my insurance provider wouldn't cover it so I'd have to pay entirely out of pocket, and that I didn't need one anyway because I'd "made it this far without one" (I'm a woman in my 30s).

So yeah, the medical establishment basically told me that because their system failed me as a child it was fine for it to continue to fail me as an adult. Some of us would be delighted to be officially assessed, it's the medical establishment that doesn't care to provide it.

[u/GoGoRoloPolo → u/harpweaver]

In some places, it's down to money. In others, it's years long waiting lists. In some places, you realistically just can't get one at all. Getting an assessment is a real privilege.

[u/Felsk → u/harpweaver]

what will an official diagnosis do for you?