My rationale for seeking a diagnosis for my children is based on the belief that my children KNOW that they are different and that a diagnosis helps them to understand why and how. Child H was diagnosed a little later that the others and on being informed of the diagnosis (another topic to discuss later) he stated, "Oh so there isn't anything wrong with me after all!". He knew that he was not like the neurotypical kids in his class. He knew that he behaved differently. He was convinced it was because there was something 'wrong' with him. His diagnosis gave him a reason for this difference. It allowed him to develop an understanding of why he reacts or behaves in certain ways that are different to others. At 11 years old, he still struggles with being different but he does know why and he knows that there are other people who are like him. He knows that it is not his fault (most days). My husband shares similar thoughts about his diagnosis. He sought his official diagnosis as an adult to explain why he is the way he is. He has at times, felt victimised by a lack of diagnosis. Diagnosis for adults and females is a challenge as they may not present as young boys with ASD typically do. Dr Tony Attwood discusses this in the video below.
The other main reason I believe in diagnosis is that it gives you a way to build understanding with those around you. Being able to explain to people that there is a reason why my son cannot cope with you teasing him, or touching him. That he isn't being rude when he doesn't look you in the eye and becomes non-verbal when you talk to him. I find it amazing how many adults/strangers get right up into a child's personal space and become demanding of a particular response. My children always fail this 'test'. A diagnosis provides a way to explain the behaviour of my loved ones that hopefully will result in understanding.
A diagnosis will also allow you access to support and services. It will give you a way to request the support your loved one/s need.
So while that is my rationale for seeking a diagnosis I do have to admit that a diagnosis can have a negative impact. It can be used by some as a label that places limitations and negative stereotypes upon the diagnosed person. An example is that my children do not get chosen for gifted and talented programmes, in spite of their many 'gifts'. My son M won a cyber security competition at 15 years old with a full scholarship. He has immense knowledge and ability with computers that far exceeded his teachers at school. None of the schools he attended acknowledged or utilised his exceptional expertise in this area.
Many people I know feel that if they are catering for their child's needs and their child is coping at school without the need for additional support, a diagnosis is not needed. This is a completely valid argument that prevents the labelling of their child. My only advise in these circumstances would be to monitor the situation to check if they think their child would benefit from a diagnosis personally. And remember that this diagnosis does not have to be shared with anyone unless you feel there is a benefit to it.
A label is limiting and will never be a good fit for anyone. Education and understanding combat labelling. A diagnosis does not have to be a label!
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