Self-Identification

Some adults consider autism independently. They may complete online questionnaires. Following this process, some conclude that they are autistic. This is called “self-identification.”

While self-identification will not likely be accepted by insurance companies or may not be regarded as “official” in certain settings, it is often helpful to the individual who self-identifies. This person may use insights gained in the self-identification process to guide self-help strategies and to increase their own understanding of life experiences. They may find a community of people with whom they connect well. Some individuals may not need to have a formal diagnosis to benefit from the self-knowledge that they have gained during the self-identification process.