Learn About Autism
Learn about autism, screening tools, and support. Evidence-based guide for adults exploring neurodiversity — clear, practical information.
Education helps build understanding and acceptance. Learn about autistic traits, how screening tools work, and how to support autistic people. Whether you're exploring neurodiversity for yourself or someone you care about, accurate information matters.
Understanding Autism
Autism is a neurological difference that affects how people communicate, interact, and experience the world. Autism affects approximately 1-2% of the population globally, though many adults remain undiagnosed.
What is Autism?
Autism is a lifelong neurological difference. Autistic people may process information differently, have unique communication styles, and experience sensory input more intensely. It's recognized in the DSM-5 as Autism Spectrum Disorder.
The Autism Spectrum
Autism is called a spectrum because it presents differently in each person. Some autistic people need significant support, while others live independently. Autistic traits exist on a continuum in the general population.
Common Traits
Many autistic people share certain traits: differences in social communication, focused interests, preference for routine, and sensory sensitivities. These traits cluster together but vary in intensity. However, every autistic person is unique.
Strengths and Challenges
Autistic people often have strengths like attention to detail, pattern recognition, and deep focus. Challenges may include social anxiety, sensory overload, or difficulty with change. A strengths-based approach focuses on supporting autistic people rather than viewing autism solely as a deficit.
Assessment and Diagnosis
Getting a diagnosis involves a comprehensive evaluation by qualified professionals:
Screening vs. Diagnosis
Screening tools identify potential traits. A formal diagnosis requires evaluation by a specialist (psychologist, psychiatrist, or developmental pediatrician).
The Diagnostic Process
Professional assessment typically includes interviews, observations, developmental history, and standardized tests. It may take several sessions.
Why Get Diagnosed?
A formal diagnosis can provide clarity, access to support services, workplace accommodations, and connection to the autistic community. However, self-identification is also valid.
Adult Diagnosis
Many adults discover they're autistic later in life. Screening tools are designed for adults who may have been missed by earlier evaluations. Late diagnosis is increasingly common.
After Screening
If screening suggests autistic traits, consider discussing results with a healthcare provider who specializes in autism assessment. They can provide a comprehensive evaluation.
Supporting Autistic People
How to be a good ally to autistic people:
- •Listen to autistic voices and experiences
- •Respect communication differences (some prefer text, some need processing time)
- •Understand sensory needs (bright lights, loud sounds, or certain textures may be overwhelming)
- •Don't force eye contact or physical touch
- •Be direct and clear in communication
- •Respect special interests and routines
- •Accommodate rather than trying to 'fix'
- •Learn about autism from autistic people, not just professionals
- •Challenge stereotypes and stigma
- •Recognize that autism is a difference, not a deficit
Understanding Masking
Many autistic people, especially women and those assigned female at birth, learn to 'mask' or camouflage their autistic traits:
- •Masking means hiding autistic traits to fit in socially
- •It can include forcing eye contact, suppressing stimming, or scripting conversations
- •Masking is exhausting and can lead to burnout
- •People who mask may score lower on screening assessments
- •If you relate to autism but don't 'look autistic,' you might be masking
- •Masking doesn't make someone less autistic
- •Screening tools try to account for masking, but they're not perfect
- •Professional evaluators trained in adult neurodevelopmental assessment can better identify masked traits
Common Myths About Autism
Dispelling misconceptions about autism:
Autism only affects children
Autism is lifelong. Many adults are autistic, and screening tools are designed specifically for adults who may have been missed in childhood.
Autistic people lack empathy
Autistic people often feel empathy deeply. They may express it differently or struggle to read others' emotions, but they care.
You can tell if someone is autistic by looking at them
Autism is an invisible difference. Many autistic people mask their traits. Screening assessments can help identify traits that aren't obvious.
Autism is caused by vaccines or bad parenting
Autism is neurodevelopmental and likely has genetic components. It's not caused by vaccines, parenting, or diet.
All autistic people are the same
The autism spectrum is diverse. Assessment tools recognize that autistic traits vary widely between individuals.
Autism needs to be cured
Many autistic people don't want a cure. They want acceptance, accommodation, and support to thrive as they are.
Autism Resources and Information
Trusted sources for autism information:
Autism Research Centre (Cambridge University)
The research team behind the AQ assessment used in our screening platform. Provides evidence-based research on autism spectrum disorder.
Learn about the researchAutistic Self Advocacy Network (ASAN)
Run by and for autistic people. Provides resources, advocacy, and community support.
National Autistic Society
UK-based charity providing information, support, and services for autistic people and families.
Autism Speaks
Note: Some autistic people criticize this organization. Consider seeking autistic-led organizations for more community-aligned perspectives.
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Start AssessmentThis information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Our screening tools are not diagnostic instruments. For a formal diagnosis, consult a qualified healthcare provider who specializes in neurodevelopmental assessment.