Autism vs Neglect Behaviour

Post Reply New Topic

I suspect autism but psychologists don't take me serious because of my childhood. I was neglected and later on abused as a result of the alcohol problems of my mother. So they think that all my behaviours come from that, but I suspect it's autism. What's the difference between autism and the behaviour of someone who suffered abuse and neglect? I show repetivite behaviours all my life long, shallow emotions, I don't understand body language, non-verbal communication and facial expressions, I have life long interests, obsessions with some people and I prefer to be alone. I'm very distant to people and don't need others in my life. And that's just a bit information.

(Sorry if I made any misspellings, English isn't my first language)

Its really hard to say what's going on with you. Certainly not enough information in one online post to decide if you are autistic or responding mostly to trauma.

It is true that trauma like that can cause all of the symptoms you describe. Trauma can make you look autistic.

But you can also have trauma and autism. In fact, if your mother also had untreated autism, that would help explain some of her failings as a mother. Its not that autistics can't be good parents. But if she never recognized her weaknesses, and never got the help she needed, that might have been part of the reason she was so sick while you were growing up. Autism tends to run in families.

The one thing you describe that probably isn't the result of trauma is not recognizing facial expressions. Not all autistics have this trait, but many do. This is one of those things that you can access a real online test to evaluate it. I can't seem to find the test now. Maybe someone else will post it for you? Its one of those tests that a lot of people on wrongplanet have taken. But it would be that kind of thing that could indicate more that you might have autism on top of your ruff childhood.

Regardless, I hope you find a way to heal, and thrive in the world. You're at such a great age! I know its frustrating to be almost grown, and not quiet an adult. But there's a lot of great stuff waiting for you as an adult, I promise.

It's hard to say.

I also have doubts about my diagnosis because I was neglected and abused by my alcoholic father(which I suppose is a little autistic too) and I have no clue which of my current state is genetic and which is caused by trauma and not being raised right.

But does it matter? Be it autism or results of neglect - you have autistic like problems so you need help. Reason doesn't matter. Difficulties do.

^ I really like that answer. Thanks, Kiriae!