AuDHD Flourishing 39 Autism "Levels" and Monotropism
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Mar 1, 2024 Exploring the complexities of autism 'levels' and functioning labels, masking, and subclinical autism. Delving into monotropism theory and its impact on neurodiversity, attention focus, and well-being.
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Levels Reflect Masking More Than Functioning
- Autism diagnostic levels mostly reflect masking ability rather than true daily functioning.
- Masking hides severe internal distress so external appearance misleads clinicians and others.
Subclinical Labels Miss Brain Differences
- 'Subclinical autism' often rests on surface reports rather than brain development evidence.
- Autistic brains show distinct developmental patterns that assessments rarely probe for.
Brain Subtypes Explain Hidden Presentations
- Brain-imaging studies suggest autism contains multiple neurodevelopmental subtypes.
- Some subtypes present quietly and are less likely to be clinically diagnosed despite real brain differences.