Possible Outcomes

Keep in mind that the purpose of an autism evaluation is more than just to determine if the characteristics of autism are present. Regardless of the answer to that question, a good evaluation will collect information about the individual and provide a better understanding of who they are and what they need. 

Regarding the diagnosis, the possible outcomes fall into three broad categories: 

• Autism is diagnosed.
• Autism is NOT diagnosed. 
  • It may be that no diagnosis or condition is identified or indicated. At times some characteristics of other conditions or diagnoses are recognized during the evaluation. If this is the case, it may be appropriate for the professional to provide diagnoses other than autism. Alternatively, they may refer the child for further assessment to consider the possibility of other conditions. 
• The decision is deferred. Sometimes the outcome of an autism evaluation is unclear. It may be that temporary factors such as a recent significant change in the child’s environment (divorce, death of a family member, a move) prevent gaining a clear picture of the child’s characteristics and needs. It may be that the evaluators believe that developmental factors are clouding a clear understanding of the child. In these situations, the recommendation to assess again later is usually made.