Broadening autism definitions spark debate over over-diagnosis and identity
A recent European study shows a massive rise in autism diagnoses without intellectual disability, prompting experts to warn of diagnostic inflation.
A two-decade European analysis revealed that autism diagnoses lacking intellectual disability surged by 1,800%, whereas cases with intellectual disability remained unchanged. Veteran autism researcher Uta Frith described this as "diagnostic inflation" that risks pathologising ordinary human differences. The piece highlights how platforms like TikTok spread simplistic quizzes that many adults endorse, contributing to the surge.
American researchers also found such videos often misleading. While some newly diagnosed adults feel relief from the label, the author argues that embracing "on the spectrum" as an identity may shift responsibility away from personal development.
Why it matters
The expanding autism label may reshape how society views normal behavior and influence medical and educational policies.
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