What do studies show happens to adults who were diagnosed with ASD as children?
• The core symptoms of autism, that is, impaired social skills, verbal or nonverbal communication, and restricted interests, persist into adulthood. • Most of the adults followed up in adulthood still required assistance with day-to-day living. • Some adults had completed higher education or vocational training, had friends, and were able to keep a job. • The majority, however, were unable to hold down a job or to complete formal schooling. • Adults with a childhood IQ of more than 70 fared better than those with IQs lower than 70.
