Adult autism diagnosis can bring clarity and understanding
June 12, 2023
IN THE NEWS: Autism is a neurodevelopmental disorder that occurs on a spectrum of severity. Some sufferers with so-called high-functioning autism may not be aware that they have it, yet it interferes with their lives.
UCI Health autism expert Dr. Peter J. Chung spoke with Forbes about signs of high-functioning autism and why adults who suspect they may be on the spectrum may want to be diagnosed:
“There’s a benefit to being diagnosed with autism if you are an adult who hasn’t been officially diagnosed. It can be helpful for self-identity and being able to understand why some things may be harder for you than they are for other people; for example, why you may not feel emotions the same way other people do.”
Chung is a board-certified UCI Health pediatrician who specializes in developmental and behavioral pediatric medicine. He is the medical director of the Center for Autism & Neurodevelopmental Disorders. His research focus includes deaf culture, assistive technology, narrative medicine, video games for therapeutic application, medical education and quality improvement.
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