Neurodivergence in Adults: Autism Spectrum Disorder & Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder

Question 1

Neurodiversity

Answer 1

is the statistical normal range of a function in a population at a particular age. A person can’t be neurodiverse; diversity is a trait of the whole group, not a specific individual

Question 2

Neurotypical

Answer 2

is a term used to describe individuals where a selective neurocognitive function falls within the prevalent societal norm

Question 3

Neurodivergent

Answer 3

is a term used to describe individuals where a selective neurocognitive function falls out with the prevalent societal norm

Question 4

Assessment and Diagnosis - Autism

Answer 4

Multidisciplinary
Childhood and here and now
DSM-5 and ICD-11
No biological marker or test
Screening tools – Autism Quotient AQ-10 or AQ-50

Question 5

Masking in autism

Answer 5

Means using strategies to hide their differences from other people

Self preservation strategy / stigma management to avoid being judged negatively for being themselves

Sometimes deliberate but most often unconscious

Tiring and comes at a cost to mental health
75% of autistic people surveyed report masking all or some of the time to avoid being perceived as visibly autistic

People with ADHD also report masking

Looks like forcing themselves to smile, make eye contact, appear to be compliant, avoid using or asking for regulating adaptations

In the past we have missed diagnoses or refused to see people who were internalising their distress

Now we know about masking we can assess when assessment is sought rather than waiting until crisis points when the mask falls

Level of functioning
Still warrant diagnosis

ICD-11 ‘Some individuals with autism spectrum disorder are able to function adequately in many contexts through exceptional effort, such that their deficits may not be apparent to others. A diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder is still appropriate in such cases’.