Being diagnosed with autism in adulthood: a personal case study
ISSN: 2056-3868
Article publication date: 19 June 2020
Issue publication date: 11 August 2021
Abstract
Purpose
This paper aims to report the personal experiences of an adult male diagnosed with autism at the age of 48 years.
Design/methodology/approach
A personal case study methodology was used to illustrate the journey to autism diagnosis, the experience of diagnosis and post-diagnosis support.
Findings
This case study illustrates how stress and mental health difficulties can precede autism diagnosis in adults. The personal experiences detailed highlight how an adult autism diagnosis can bring about positive change, prompting increased self-knowledge and coping skills, improved relationships and. Furthermore, it highlights how a supportive employer can make reasonable adjustments in the workplace to improve productivity of an autistic employee.
Research limitations/implications
This case study has implications for various practice issues, including post-diagnosis counselling and access to support for autistic adults nationally.
Originality/value
This paper provides an original case study highlighting the personal experiences of an adult diagnosed with autism.
Keywords
Citation
Henley, R. (2021), "Being diagnosed with autism in adulthood: a personal case study", Advances in Autism, Vol. 7 No. 3, pp. 256-261. https://doi.org/10.1108/AIA-03-2020-0018
Publisher
:Emerald Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2020, Emerald Publishing Limited