Can Adults Develop Autism If They Were Never Diagnosed as Children?

Q: Can Adults Develop Autism If They Were Never Diagnosed as Children?

Hello, netizen： If you didn't have autism as a child, you won't develop it as an adult, so please don't worry. <br>Autism is believed to be a congenital condition, but the exact causes are still unclear. <br>Dr. <br>Wu Enliang.

It is unlikely for someone to develop autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in adulthood if they did not exhibit symptoms during childhood. Autism is typically diagnosed in early childhood, and while some individuals may have milder symptoms that go unrecognized, a formal diagnosis of ASD usually occurs before the age of 3. However, it is possible for individuals to experience changes in their mental health or develop other conditions that

Hello Doctor: My girlfriend is currently 30 years old and is a normal person, but she has a brother with autism.
My mother is worried that my girlfriend might also develop autism in the future, so she wants us to break up.
Therefore, I would like to ask, is it possible for someone who did not have autism in childhood to develop it later in life?

ken, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/07/04

Dr. Wu Enliang reply Psychiatry

Hello, netizen: If you didn't have autism as a child, you won't develop it as an adult, so please don't worry.
Autism is believed to be a congenital condition, but the exact causes are still unclear.
Dr.
Wu Enliang.

Reply Date: 2019/07/04

More Info

The concern regarding whether adults can develop autism if they were never diagnosed as children is a common one, especially among families with a history of autism spectrum disorders (ASD). To address your question directly: No, an individual who was not diagnosed with autism in childhood will not develop autism in adulthood. Autism is a neurodevelopmental disorder that is typically identified in early childhood, often before the age of three. The symptoms and characteristics of autism are present from a young age, even if they are not recognized or diagnosed until later.

Autism spectrum disorder encompasses a range of conditions characterized by challenges with social skills, repetitive behaviors, speech, and nonverbal communication. The core features of autism are believed to have a genetic basis, and while environmental factors may play a role in the expression of these traits, the fundamental neurodevelopmental aspects are established early in life.

Your girlfriend, being 30 years old and having no diagnosis of autism in her childhood, is unlikely to develop autism now. It is important to clarify that autism is not something that develops later in life; rather, it is a condition that is present from early development, even if it goes unnoticed or is misdiagnosed.
Moreover, the concern about genetic predisposition is valid, as having a family member with autism can increase the likelihood of other family members having similar traits. However, this does not mean that your girlfriend will develop autism simply because her brother has it. Autism is complex, and while genetics can influence its occurrence, it does not guarantee that siblings will share the same diagnosis.

In terms of your girlfriend's mental health and well-being, it is crucial to support her and reassure her that she is not at risk of developing autism. The fears stemming from familial concerns should not dictate personal relationships. Open communication between you and your girlfriend can help alleviate any anxiety that may arise from her family's worries.

If there are concerns about her social skills or emotional well-being, it may be beneficial for her to speak with a mental health professional. They can provide guidance and support, helping her navigate any challenges she may face without the fear of developing a condition that she does not have.

In summary, autism is a lifelong condition that is typically diagnosed in childhood, and it does not manifest in adulthood in individuals who were not previously diagnosed. Your girlfriend's situation is not indicative of a risk for developing autism, and it is essential to approach this topic with understanding and support rather than fear. Encourage her to focus on her strengths and the positive aspects of her personality, and remind her that her worth is not defined by the presence of autism in her family.

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