Yes, you can self-identify as autistic, but it’s important to understand what that means. Self-identification occurs when someone recognizes autistic traits in themselves; such as sensory sensitivities, social challenges, or a need for routine, based on personal research or lived experience, even without a formal diagnosis.
Many adults, especially women and people of color, turn to self-identification because access to professional assessments can be limited or expensive. Self-recognition can bring clarity, validation, and a sense of community for those who’ve felt “different” most of their lives.
However, an official diagnosis from a qualified specialist provides access to resources, workplace accommodations, and therapies like Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) that can support skill-building and emotional growth. Both self-identification and formal diagnosis are valid steps toward self-understanding and empowerment.
At Little Champs ABA, we provide individualized ABA therapy in Utah and Colorado, supporting people of all ages in improving communication, focus, and daily living skills with compassion and respect.
Considering whether you might be autistic? Contact us today!
SOURCE:
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3223930/
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s40489-023-00361-x
https://digitalcommons.lesley.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1276&context=expressive_theses
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/312034146_A_conceptual_framework_for_understanding_characteristics_of_self-awareness_associated_with_autism_spectrum_disorder
https://scholars.duke.edu/publication/1115010