knowing when to test teen

[janny108]

Hi what signs should we look for before testing our teen for aspergers or other mental issues? How do you differentiate what is "normal teen stuff" to something that needs more attention?
thanks

 

[dayhiker]

That is a very good question. I don't know that there is a definitive answer.
How does one distinguish between the awkward of the teen years and the limited ability of those with AS to socialize?

Yet there are a list of characteristics AS, its not one things, but its a list that isn't the same with each person with AS. So I'd say study the person. Engage them in discussion about how they view their ability in the areas AS people have to deal with.

 

[GarfieldJL]

Well I wasn't diagnosed with being on the spectrum until I started college (it seems that some people that are on the upper end of the Spectrum are diagnosed late).

Anyways, the main thing you need to do is have the kid diagnosed by a specialist, it is very easy to misdiagnose someone as being on the spectrum and vice-versa.

Since I've never met the kid, I can't offer any opinion as to whether or not he/she is on the spectrum, it's weird but I can sometimes tell whether or not someone is on the spectrum.

 

[Sabertooth]

Sooner is better than later for Aspergers. We adults have typically learned coping skills which can mask our symptoms. That happens less with a younger diagnosis AND they will have that diagnosis established when they, too, learn better coping skills.

 

[RCF]

If you have questions, talk to your family doctor now. Not when you get around to it, but imediately. This sounds like a PSA, but the earilier you identify the problem, the more the help will actually help.
Most family doctors know enough to ask the right questions and get you to someone to test with. If they don't in to days ASD climate, you may need to find a new doc.