According to the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), autism affects about one in 36 children in the U.S. However, many individuals may not receive a diagnosis until adulthood. This can lead to overlooked or misunderstood symptoms for those who grow up without being identified as autistic.
A national nonprofit, Autism Tales, states that one in 45 adults in the U.S. is diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). While there’s a growing movement for autism advocacy and education, many individuals might still remain undiagnosed or even misdiagnosed, as noted by the group’s New Jersey headquarters.
If you suspect you or a loved one might be on the spectrum, it’s worth exploring what autism may look like in adults.
General Characteristics
ASD encompasses challenges related to social communication and includes repetitive or restrictive behaviors, as defined by the American Psychiatric Association. Some typical characteristics seen in adults might involve feeling out of place in social situations, struggling to understand others’ emotions, preferring solitude, finding it hard to make friends, and not grasping social norms.
Repetitive behaviors can show up in various ways, such as a strict adherence to daily routines and having intensely focused interests.
Though not everyone with autism displays all the traits, it’s also noted that interests can evolve over time. Significant life events—like going to college, starting a career, or changes in relationship status—can also shift the manifestation of symptoms.
Masking
The term “masking” describes how individuals with autism may conceal their symptoms to fit in better during social interactions. Some choose to disguise their traits to prevent bullying, cultivate friendships, or achieve success academically or professionally. They might engage in subtle behaviors, like using fidget toys, which can help them mask their difficulties without even realizing it.
Imitating another’s body language or speech during conversations can also be a form of masking. While this helps navigate everyday interactions, research has highlighted that it can take a toll on mental health, fostering feelings of isolation or exhaustion.
Gender Differences
Research indicates that autistic girls and women tend to adapt socially more than their male counterparts, often concealing their symptoms more effectively. In fact, girls are diagnosed with autism at a rate about three times lower than boys.
Alisha Simpson-Watt, a clinical social worker and behavior analyst, stated that for many girls, this masking begins in childhood and can feel like a second nature by adulthood. This can frequently result in late diagnoses for women.
Cultural expectations may add to this complexity since societal norms often dictate that girls be more emotionally expressive and socially harmonious, further obscuring signs of autism.
The Path to Diagnosis
ASD exists on a spectrum, meaning symptoms can differ greatly from person to person. Simpson-Watt points out that while the fundamental challenges remain consistent, how they are expressed varies widely.
It’s crucial to emphasize “spectral diversity.” Autism does not present the same way for everyone, and developing this understanding can help more adults find the validation and support they require.
For those who think they might have undiagnosed autism, experts suggest trusting your instincts and pursuing a formal evaluation. Speaking with your primary care physician and checking with your insurance provider can be good starting points. It’s worth noting that some insurance plans may have age-related restrictions on funding assessments, so beginning the process early is beneficial.
