20 May AUTISM IS IN
AUTISM IS IN
As of April 2025, Autism statistics have shot up dramatically. Autism Speaks reports the following:
- 1 in 31 children in the U.S. has autism, up from the previous rate of 1 in 36.
- 1 in 45 adults in the U.S. has autism.
- In the U.S., about 4 in 100 boys and 1 in 100 girls have autism.
- Boys are nearly 4 times more likely to be diagnosed with autism than girls.
Is this meteoric rise real? Is their overdiagnosis of Autism??
Check out these thoughts from Autism Parenting Magazine….
Could I be on the spectrum?
Online quizzes and pop psychology fuel us to read more into our garden variety social awkwardness and intense interests. Quirky behavior, slightly south of the social norm may be enough for a (online or survey type) diagnosis on the spectrum—even if it’s on the periphery where mild, or borderline autism is found.
Google schooled society in pseudoscience so, sometimes, we self-diagnose and borrow symptoms from medical conditions. We speak about neurodiversity and our differently wired brains, we use attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) as a synonym for creativity, and we identify with gifted Aspies. While this chatter may contribute to destigmatizing some conditions, it could be responsible for diluting the seriousness of a true neurodevelopmental disorder like autism.
Media and cultural shifts are not the only elements influencing the possible overdiagnosis of autism. Parents sometimes accept an autism diagnosis even though they know their child is more likely to have sensory processing disorder or some other condition. Autism is a recognized medical condition and a diagnosis means treatment can be obtained, and perhaps more importantly reimbursed.
It is well known that Social Anxiety broadly overlaps with Autism. Both groups can be social awkward and have trouble reading others. As mentioned above many folks wish an ASD diagnosis because it would be a more comfortable explanation of their awkwardness and anxiety. Parents want the diagnosis because it allows for insurance-paid ABA therapy services.
Be aware Dr. Eisenberg uses the strict DSM5 criterion for ASD which includes a social disconnect, and likely rigid behaviors and habits, intense interests and sensory issues.
Remember, social skills deficits must be observed for a child to be accurately placed on the spectrum. These children have great difficulty reading subtle social signals of others, seem to struggle with empathy and do not perceive the necessity of turn-taking. Sometimes with autistic children we see preoccupations (that are different than OCD) and great difficulty with change or transition. Speech delays are common.
Many of those coming for an ASD diagnosis leave with an Anxiety one. Luckily anxiety is treatable in many ways, so this is a positive outcome. At that point Dr. Eisenberg will provide a host of interventions and recommendations for anxiety. Those leaving with an ASD diagnosis also get much direction and recommendations. Given the quality of ABA treatment, those folks are beginning a journey that is likely to improve their quality of life and mental health.