If you suspect your teenager might be on the autism spectrum, understanding how to recognise the signs and increasing your knowledge about the diagnostic process can be really helpful. To learn more about the diagnostic process, take a look at our article How do they Test for Autism?
But why is a formal diagnosis so important? Recognising autism early in a teenager’s life opens doors to tailored support and interventions, enhancing their ability to overcome social, educational, and personal challenges.
Our commitment at Oxford CBT extends beyond diagnostics; we are dedicated to the ongoing well-being of our community. We aim to support our clients from diagnosis through to a detailed and personalised support plan. If you live in Oxford and the surrounding area, consider contacting us for a private autism assessment in Oxford.
This article will guide you through the nuances of diagnosing autism in teenagers, highlight the signs to watch for, and outline effective steps towards obtaining a diagnosis, ensuring that every teen has the opportunity to thrive.
How is Autism Diagnosed in Teenagers?
The diagnosis of autism in teenagers can be a confusing time for both the teen and their parents. It’s a process that involves several steps, each designed to ensure a thorough understanding of the individual’s unique situation.
The Diagnostic Process
Initial screening for autism typically begins by talking to your GP and raising your concerns.
If autism is suspected, the next step is a referral to a multi-disciplinary team that may include psychologists, psychiatrists, speech and language therapists, occupational therapists and developmental paediatricians who are trained to assess and diagnose autism spectrum disorders.
The comprehensive evaluation includes a variety of assessments designed to look at the teenager’s behavioural, social, and communication skills in depth.
Diagnostic Tools and Autism Tests for Teenagers
There are several tools and screening tests that might be used in the process of diagnosing your teen. The results of each assessment add another piece to the overall puzzle, allowing the specialist team to give a confident and comprehensive diagnosis.
1. Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS)
The ADOS is a session where a specialist or team of specialists observes how a teenager communicates, interacts socially, and plays. The planned activities are set up to bring out behaviours that are often seen in autism, helping the specialist determine if those behaviours match the typical patterns of autism spectrum disorder.
It might be helpful to think of it as watching how the teen interacts in different scenarios to pick up clues about their social and communication skills.
2. Autism Diagnostic Interview-Revised (ADI-R)
The ADI-R is an interview, but instead of talking to the teenager themselves, the specialist speaks with the parents or guardians. During this interview, parents are asked detailed questions about their child’s development from early childhood to the present.
The purpose is to uncover any behaviours or developmental patterns that align with autism, based on the parents’ observations and experiences throughout the child’s life.
3. Social Responsiveness Scale (SRS)
This tool involves answering questions that assess how severe autism symptoms are in everyday social settings. It helps the specialist understand how well the teenager can interact and communicate with others in a natural environment.
This takes the form of a survey that measures social challenges to assess how intense they are, which is key in diagnosing and understanding the impact of autism in daily life.
4. Childhood Autism Rating Scale (CARS)
The CARS is used to evaluate a teenager’s behaviour and assign it a score that ranges from mild to severe. This helps to determine not just the presence of autism but also how pronounced the autistic behaviours are.
The evaluation covers a wide range of behaviours, and the specialist observes and rates these behaviours to give a clearer picture of the level of support the teenager might need.
Role of Parents and Teachers in Diagnosis
Parents and teachers are essential in the diagnostic process for autism, often being the first to notice atypical behaviours. Their day-to-day insights provide real-world examples of how the teenager handles various environments, which are critical for identifying signs of autism.
As a parent, you may be asked to observe and report on your teen’s social interactions, behavioural patterns, and communication skills. These can be compared to a teacher’s report, noting differences in the teen’s behaviour at home compared to school, as well as their reactions to social challenges and ability to engage with peers.
In addition to observations, parents and teachers contribute by filling out detailed questionnaires and forms that cover a broad spectrum of behaviours, from verbal and non-verbal communication to responses to sensory stimuli and adaptability to routine changes. These forms help create a holistic profile of the teenager’s behaviour across different contexts.
Signs of Autism in Teenagers
Recognising the signs of autism in teenagers can help in reaching a timely diagnosis and getting the support your teen needs. Here’s a more detailed look at the common signs and symptoms:
1. Social Difficulties
Teenagers with autism often face significant challenges in social environments, which can be seen in their struggle to form and maintain friendships.
Unlike their peers, they may find it difficult to interpret social cues such as body language, facial expressions, and tone of voice. This can lead to misunderstandings and social isolation, which can be understandably distressing.
They also might not react “appropriately” in social situations, for instance, laughing at serious moments or not smiling in joyous occasions, which makes social interactions more challenging.
2. Communication Challenges
Communication issues are a core symptom of autism and can vary widely among teenagers. Some may have had delayed speech development in early life, where they began to speak later than their peers, or not at all. Those who do speak often use language in unusual ways, such as speaking in a monotonous tone or repeating phrases verbatim.
Additionally, nonverbal communication is also affected; teenagers with autism might make less eye contact, use fewer gestures (like pointing or waving), or have facial expressions that do not match the conversation’s tone.
Repetitive Behaviours and Restricted Interests
Many teens with autism exhibit repetitive behaviours, which may include rocking, hand-flapping, or twirling objects consistently. These actions can be soothing to them, especially in stressful situations.
Restricted interests are also common, where a teen might become deeply focused on a narrow topic of interest. This intense focus can make it difficult for them to engage in conversations about other topics.
Sensory Sensitivities
Teens with autism often have atypical responses to sensory input. This can manifest as either hypersensitivity (overreaction) or hyposensitivity (under-reaction) to sensory stimuli.
For example, a teenager might find loud noises like school bells or cafeteria bustle overwhelming, leading to distress or avoidance behaviours. Conversely, they might not react to things like cold or pain in the way one might expect.
Preferences for specific textures or sounds are also notable, where a teen might only wear clothes of a certain fabric or eat foods with a particular texture.
Understanding these signs can help parents, teachers, and healthcare professionals recognise potential autism in teenagers, prompting earlier intervention and tailored support strategies.
How to Get an Autism Diagnosis for Your Teenager
Getting an autism diagnosis for your teenager can be a daunting prospect, and it can seem like the road ahead of you is never-ending. However, it is worth starting as early as you can; a formal diagnosis can have a hugely positive effect on a teen’s life.
Steps to Take if You Suspect Autism
If you start noticing behaviours that could be signs of autism (like difficulties in social interaction, repetitive behaviours, or unusual responses to sensory inputs) it’s important to document these for future interviews and surveys.
It’s not all about independent observations, either. Listen to your teenager when they talk about any difficulties they’re having at school. Keep a record of notable instances, noting the context in which they occurred and how your teenager responded. This record can be incredibly valuable when discussing your concerns with a healthcare provider.
Approach your teenager to discuss what you suspect in a calm and open manner. Start the conversation by expressing your observations and concerns without making any definitive statements. For example, you might say, “I’ve noticed that you seem to find social situations challenging, and you sometimes get very upset by certain sounds or changes in routine. How do you feel about these things?”
See what their opinion is. Ask them how they feel about the difficulties they are experiencing and if they have noticed these behaviours in themselves. This can provide valuable insight into their perspective and help you understand their feelings and thoughts better.
Discuss what they think about having a diagnosis. Explain that getting a diagnosis can be a positive step towards understanding and managing their experiences better. Emphasise that a diagnosis is not about labelling them but about getting the right support and resources.
Discuss what might be holding them back and see if you can offer reassurance about their concerns. If they have worries about being diagnosed, listen to these concerns and provide reassurance. For example, they might be afraid of being treated differently or labelled. You can reassure them that a diagnosis can lead to better understanding and support from teachers and peers.
When you’re both ready, initiate a conversation with your teenager’s GP or paediatrician and share your concerns. They can provide an initial assessment and, if necessary, refer you to a specialist who is experienced in diagnosing autism spectrum disorders.
Finding the Right Specialist
Choosing the right specialist to evaluate your teenager for autism in the UK can involve joining the several year NHS waiting list, or going private. Your GP can refer you to a specialist NHS team experienced in autism spectrum disorders. This might be through the local CAMHS (Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services) unit or Child Development Team.
For faster access or more specialist choices, you might consider private care, where you can directly approach clinics that specialise in developmental disorders.
Whether through the NHS or privately, ensure the specialist has relevant experience and offers a respectful, understanding approach to working with teenagers. Researching the specialist’s qualifications, reading reviews, and seeking recommendations can also aid in making an informed decision.
Preparing for the Diagnostic Evaluation
Before the evaluation, gather all relevant documentation that can provide insights into your teenager’s developmental history. This includes their developmental ‘red book’, medical records, reports from previous school evaluations, teacher observations, and any other assessments that have been conducted. Organising this information can help the specialist gain a comprehensive view of your teenager’s developmental progress and current challenges.
It’s also helpful to prepare your teenager for what to expect during the diagnostic process. Reassure them that there is no “right” or “wrong” during these screenings; the purpose is to make sure they get the best support. Reducing uncertainty can help alleviate anxiety your teenager might feel about going through the evaluation process.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Should I Do If My Teenager is Diagnosed with Autism?
Understanding the diagnosis is the first step once your teenager is diagnosed with autism. Take time to discuss the findings in detail with the diagnosing specialist to fully understand your teenager’s specific needs and challenges.
Then, you may want to begin working towards a support plan tailored to your teenager’s specific situation. If necessary, this plan may include things like therapy sessions, educational adjustments arranged with their school, or even new daily routines that cater to their comfort and growth. Advice for this is limited in the NHS.
Additionally, connecting with local resources such as autism support groups, online communities, and local charities can provide both you and your teenager with the necessary support and information.
What are the Treatment Options for Teenagers with Autism?
There are several supportive treatment options available to help teenagers with autism cope with the unique struggles they may face in everyday life. Behavioural therapies play a central role, with Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) being particularly prevalent. CBT helps improve specific areas such as social skills, communication abilities, academic performance, and stress management, making it well-suited to address the diverse challenges faced by teenagers on the autism spectrum.
How Can I Support My Teenager at Home and School?
Supporting a teenager with autism effectively requires a collaborative approach both at home and at school.
At home, create a structured, safe environment that reduces sensory overload and includes clear routines, if this helps your teen. This can make daily life more predictable and comforting for your teenager.
Collaborate closely with teachers and school staff to ensure they understand your teenager’s needs and can provide the necessary accommodations, such as a quiet space to work or extra time for assignments.
Encourage positive social interactions by fostering opportunities for your teenager to engage in social activities that align with their interests and comfort level, such as clubs or groups that focus on their hobbies.
Can Autism Be Diagnosed in Adulthood?
Yes, autism can indeed be diagnosed in adulthood. While the core process of diagnosis remains similar—assessment by healthcare professionals specialising in autism—the approach might differ slightly. Adults may face challenges in obtaining a comprehensive developmental history, and their symptoms might present differently from those commonly seen in children.
Adults seeking a diagnosis should find a specialist experienced in adult autism diagnosis to ensure an accurate assessment and to explore suitable treatment options that address their unique circumstances.
Conclusion
Early diagnosis of autism plays a vital role in ensuring that teenagers receive the support and interventions they need during their developmental years. Identifying autism early allows for the timely implementation of educational and behavioural strategies, which help teens work through their unique challenges and maximise their potential.
If you suspect that your teenager might be on the autism spectrum, it’s important to seek professional advice as soon as possible. Early consultation with healthcare providers can lead to early support, which is vital for a teenager’s social, emotional, and educational growth.
Supporting teenagers with autism requires a comprehensive approach that includes family, educational institutions, and healthcare providers. By working together, we can create an environment that supports their development and fosters well-being.
Autism Testing with Oxford CBT
While NHS wait times for autism assessments can be lengthy, Oxford CBT offers a quicker alternative to help you find the answers and support you need. We provide expert care and support for individuals of all ages facing developmental challenges.
Contact Oxford CBT today for a consultation on autism screening and diagnosis, and discover how our tailored CBT treatments can enhance well-being and quality of life for patients with autism. Let us assist you and your teenager in this journey with compassionate, professional care.
Author – Tom Murfitt
With over a decade’s experience in providing Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Tom has worked in both the NHS and private sector to help adults and children to overcome a range of difficulties and improve their mental wellbeing. In addition to being an experienced CBT therapist, Tom is also an accredited Mindfulness teacher, providing courses locally, in businesses and schools. You can read more about us here.
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