An estimated 72% of autistic adults suffer from trauma. Some may wonder: Does being traumatized and an autistic diagnosis go hand-in-hand?
While it’s surprising to see such a high number, it’s been found not to be a natural part of the autistic experience.
So, why are so many autistic individuals traumatized, then? Some people believe that it’s due to the experience of being neurodivergent in a neurotypical world. There is also research that points out that autistic individuals are more prone to suffering trauma.
Trauma Doesn’t Cause Autism
First, let’s clear up a common misconception.
Autism isn’t caused by suffering an early trauma. This was a theory long ago, but it turns out that trauma doesn’t cause autism; in truth, autism is usually caused by a genetic difference that typically runs in the family. However, it may also be caused by:
- Being born prematurely
- Having older parents at birth
- Suffering a birth complication relating to the brain and oxygen
- Parental exposure to pesticides or air pollution while pregnant
- Parental weight, immune system disorders, or diabetes while pregnant
Does Trauma Make Autism Worse?
Currently, there is more research needed to conclusively state that trauma makes autism worse. However, early research seems to indicate that having trauma can make autism symptoms more noticeable.
Other things that can worsen autistic symptoms include:
- Punitive parenting
- Changes to structure or routines
- Having no structure or routines
- Sensory overload
- Not accommodating sensory sensitivities
Where Trauma and Autism Overlap
It’s entirely possible to mistake autism for trauma or vice versa. This is especially an issue with younger children. There are at least six different symptoms of autism that can also occur with trauma:
- Avoiding certain situations or places
- Seeming anxious or nervous
- Becoming very upset stimuli such as touch or loud noises
- Not talking much or at all
- Withdrawing from others
- Having an outburst of frustration or anger
Increased Vulnerability
As we previously mentioned, autistic people tend to be more vulnerable to trauma. This can be caused by many things, including sensory sensitivities, social communication issues, and difficulty dealing with unfamiliar situations.
While a neurotypical person might feel a little embarrassed when put on the spot, an autistic person could end up traumatized by the experience. It’s important to recognize these differences with empathy.
Keep in mind that things that seem small to you might be huge in your autistic child’s mind.
Does Autism Make Someone Overly Sensitive?
Many autistic people are accused of being “overly” sensitive, but everyone – neurotypical or neurodiverse – has different sensitivities. Think of how some people in a room may differ on whether it’s too hot or cold, or how ordering for a large group may be complicated due to… sensitivities! So try not to tell your child they’re too sensitive based on a narrow definition of what one person thinks is acceptable. Instead, teach them how to deal with the world from their unique perspective, and validate their feelings. Otherwise, autistic children run the risk of being constantly gaslit later in life and even further traumatized.
If your child might fall somewhere on the autism spectrum, assessments like the ADOS-2 Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule Second Edition, or (MIGDAS™-2) Monteiro Interview Guidelines for Diagnosing the Autism Spectrum, Second Edition, or the ADI-R Autism Diagnostic Interview can help you find some answers.
