Arvid Nikolai Kildahl, Kristin Storvik, Elisabeth Christina Wächter, Tom Jensen, Arvid Ro and Inger Breistein Haugen
Distinguishing between autism characteristics and trauma-related symptoms may be clinically challenging, particularly in individuals who have experienced early traumatisation…
Abstract
Purpose
Distinguishing between autism characteristics and trauma-related symptoms may be clinically challenging, particularly in individuals who have experienced early traumatisation. Previous studies have described a risk that trauma-related symptoms are misinterpreted and/or misattributed to autism. This study aims to describe and explore assessment strategies to distinguish autism and early traumatisation in the case of a young woman with mild intellectual disability.
Design/methodology/approach
A clinical case study outlining assessment strategies, diagnostic decision-making and initial intervention.
Findings
A multi-informant interdisciplinary assessment using multiple assessment tools, together with a comprehensive review of records from previous assessments and contacts with various services, was helpful in distinguishing between autism and trauma. This included specific assessment tools for autism and trauma. Autism characteristics and trauma-related symptoms appeared to interact, not merely co-occur.
Originality/value
The current case demonstrates that diagnostic overshadowing may occur for autism in the context of early trauma. The case further highlights the importance of not ascribing trauma-related symptoms to autism, as service provision and treatment need to take account of both. Overlooking autism in individuals who have experienced early traumatisation may result in a risk that intervention and care are not appropriately adapted, which may involve a risk of exacerbating trauma symptoms.
Details
Keywords
Gaea Morales, Anthony Tirado Chase, Michelle E. Anderson and Sofia Gruskin
What does the relationship between the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and human rights look like in practice at the local level? With Los Angeles as a case study, we focus…
Abstract
What does the relationship between the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and human rights look like in practice at the local level? With Los Angeles as a case study, we focus on the partnership between universities and the Mayor’s Office in the localization of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. The co-creation of student “Task Forces” with city officials and the evolution of the use of the Goals in planning over time demonstrate how localization created opportunities to identify and act on human rights issues through SDG implementation at the city level.