There are long term studies on outcomes in ASD. At least three studies have shown that 20% of kids lose diagnosis. Another 10% turn out to be very high functioning (quirky) and may lead normal life. The outcome for the rest is mixed. We are doing everything in our control to make sure the best possible outcome whether via therapy, schooling, med or biomed. Not giving up or leaving it to God or a prayer.

Hi there!

My name is Shayna Gier, and I wasn't diagnosed until after I had graduated, had a job, dated, and gotten married.

However, not being diagnosed is not the same as not being autistic. I was still autistic, and I certainly had my struggles.

Today, I am blessed to be the mother of another wonderful autistic toddler. I'm still married, and will be for the rest of forever.

I do not believe that an autistic can- or should- turn into a neurotypical, but being autistic does not mean you cannot do anything in life. I like to say we "redefine normal" every day in this household.

The only think I would * to "can do anything" is that major life-events can be the same as a neurotypical, but it's likely that they will look different from the neurotypical experience, as we just live life differently.

Also, being neurotypical is not a guarentee that your child will marry, or have kids. I am 27, married, and have a child. My neurotypical sister is 24, not married, no child. It's just random chance. My sister always talks about how she doesn't think she will manage to get married ever... I doubt that, but its a possibility. There are so many different ways to live a fulfilling life! Both for neurotypicals, and autistics.

Also, your child MAY/likely-will require more help from you in these steps than a neurotypical child, but that shouldn't stop him from being able to experience it, unless you don't allow it. :)

I know individuals diagnosed with Asperger's who are doing o.k. as adults. They still struggle with social interactions (especially when it comes to sustaining dating/marital relationships) but they have managed to find their "niche" (often in a tech-related field). I am hopeful that with continued therapy including social skills training that my DD with HFA will improve her functioning to the point where she's seen as merely "quirky" rather than obviously impaired.

I think about this all the time. My son is in first grade, and he has behavior issues. He is really smart and very affectionate with me and the rest of our family. I want to know will the behavior issues ever come under control so that we can get back to educating this child! He is ahead in math by a grade and behind in reading. What are the long term implications of his education? Will the behavior trends get better and make him able to interact with his peers enough to blend into society. He is beautiful. He is so handsome. He has so much potential. I just can't get him where he needs to be. Sigh...Yes, I think about it all the time, and no one...no one will give me a guess or even a barometer reading on what his future holds based on what they have seen.

I know I should look to god for all guidance. I just never do. :/ bit I'm sure with time everything will be ok. & everything will fall into place.