Understanding Autism: Key Questions and Signs
Autism is a complex neurodevelopmental condition that affects how individuals perceive and interact with the world. As awareness around autism grows, more people are seeking to understand whether they might be on the spectrum. A top medical professional has shared some essential questions that can help individuals assess their potential autistic traits.
These prompts are derived from the AQ-19 test, a widely used screening tool for people aged 16 and over. This self-report questionnaire helps healthcare professionals determine if a full autism assessment is necessary. The test includes statements that participants rate based on their level of agreement, such as "definitely agree," "slightly agree," or "definitely disagree."
The areas explored in the AQ-19 include sensory processing, social interaction, need for routine, and ability to cope with change. According to one viral TikTok video, which has garnered over 56,000 views, a score of six or less makes autism unlikely. However, it's important to note that this test is not a substitute for a professional diagnosis.
Rising Demand for Autism Assessments
With increasing awareness of autism, the demand for formal assessments has surged. In the UK, NHS waiting lists for autism diagnoses have grown significantly, with some patients facing long waits for appointments. As of December last year, over 212,000 people were on the waiting list for an autism assessment.
While some critics argue that autism is being overdiagnosed, others believe the rise in cases reflects greater awareness of how the condition presents—especially in girls and women, who were historically underdiagnosed. Traditionally, autism was viewed as a predominantly male condition, with earlier studies suggesting a male-to-female diagnosis ratio of 3:1. However, recent evidence indicates that this gap may be due to gender bias in recognition and assessment.
A recent analysis estimated that if these biases were addressed, the true ratio could be closer to 1.8:1. Experts now suggest that many girls and women may be slipping through the cracks because they are better at masking their symptoms—either consciously or subconsciously—to fit in socially.
Common Traits in Autistic Women
Professor Ahmed Hankir, a UK professor and consultant psychiatrist working in Canada, highlighted five common signs of autism in women in a viral TikTok video. These include:
- Stimming: Repetitive or ritualistic movements such as skin picking, rocking, hand flapping, feet rubbing, or hair twirling.
- Emotional dysregulation and meltdowns: Overwhelming emotional or sensory experiences can lead to physical reactions like crying, screaming, or even lashing out.
- Camouflaging or masking: This involves mimicking social cues, suppressing stimming behaviors, and rehearsing scripted responses to appear more socially integrated. While helpful in fitting in, it can lead to exhaustion and burnout.
- Sensory sensitivity: Autistic individuals may experience heightened sensitivity to smells, tastes, pressure, and sounds.
- Intense interests: These can seem normal but become almost necessary rather than optional for autistic individuals. While men often have niche interests, women’s intense interests may be more socially acceptable.
The Importance of Awareness and Support
As understanding of autism continues to evolve, it's crucial to recognize the diverse ways in which the condition manifests. For many, especially women, the journey to diagnosis can be challenging due to societal expectations and biases in assessment methods.
Increasing awareness and promoting open conversations about autism can help ensure that more individuals receive the support they need. Whether through self-assessment tools, professional evaluations, or community resources, the goal remains the same: to foster inclusivity and provide accurate information for those navigating the complexities of the autism spectrum.