Autistic spectrum disorder in adolescents

repercussions of late diagnosis

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.15448/1981-2582.2025.1.47560

Keywords:

Autism Spectrum Disorder, Delayed Diagnosis, Quality of Life

Abstract

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a Neurodevelopmental Disorder characterized by difficulties in social interaction, communication and repetitive behaviors. Early diagnosis is essential for adequate treatment, however, some people only discover their condition in adolescence or adulthood. This case study addresses the importance of late diagnosis of ASD in an adolescent, highlighting the benefits of self knowledge, family adaptation and therapeutic support achieved after the assessment. Closing the investigative framework provided greater understanding of the individual’s difficulties, enabling interventions that favored their autonomy and independence. Furthermore, the referrals made and school support, with specialized educational services (AEE), contributed to their development and inclusion. Late diagnosis, although challenging, proved to be essential for improving adolescents’ quality of life in different social contexts, enabling more effective strategies for their well-being. 

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Author Biographies

Áurea Alves Guimarães, Federal University of Santa Maria (UFSM), Santa Maria, RS, Brazil.

Graduated in Special Education – Bachelor's Degree from the Federal University of Santa Maria (RS). Postgraduate degree in Clinical and Institutional Psychopedagogy from the Franciscan University of Santa Maria (RS). Postgraduate degree in Neuropsychopedagogy from Dom Alberto Faculty – Santa Cruz (RS). Master's degree in Human Communication Disorders in the Speech Therapy course at the Federal University of Santa Maria (RS). Doctoral candidate in Human Communication Disorders in the Speech Therapy course at the Federal University of Santa Maria (RS). Practitioner and professional of Integrative and Complementary Practices (PICS) – Reiki practitioner and auriculotherapist (current).

Fernanda Segala, Federal University of Santa Maria (UFSM), Santa Maria, RS, Brazil

Speech-language pathologist, PhD candidate in Human Communication Disorders at the Federal University of Santa Maria (UFSM), specializing in Dysphagia, Special Education, and ABA Intervention for Autism and Intellectual Disability (ongoing). Has experience in the area of ​​Pediatric and Adult Dysphagia, Language and Speech Disorders, Orofacial Motricity, and Childhood Neurodevelopmental Disorders (ASD, ADHD, and others).

Gisiê Mello Balsamo, Federal University of Santa Maria (UFSM), Santa Maria, RS, Brazil

Graduated in Psychology from the Franciscan University of Santa Maria (UFN), Master's in Professional and Technological Education from the Farroupilha Federal Institute (IFFAR) and PhD candidate in Human Communication Disorders in the Speech Therapy course at the Federal University of Santa Maria, RS, Brazil.

Carolina Lisbôa Mezzomo, Federal University of Santa Maria (UFSM), Santa Maria, RS, Brazil.

Graduated in Speech-Language Pathology from the Federal University of Santa Maria, with specialization in Orofacial Motricity (CEFAC) and Language (PUCRS). She holds a master's and doctorate in Letters from the Pontifical Catholic University of Rio Grande do Sul, with a concentration in Applied Linguistics. Currently, she is an Associate Professor 4 at UFSM, working in the undergraduate course in Speech-Language Pathology and in the Postgraduate Program in Human Communication Disorders. She has experience in the area of ​​Child Language and Orofacial Motricity, focusing on the following themes: typical and atypical phonological acquisition, phonological awareness, typical and atypical oral language acquisition, animal-assisted therapy, mediated by dogs (canine therapy), and Integrative and Complementary Practices.

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Published

2025-12-19

How to Cite

Alves Guimarães, Áurea, Segala, F., Mello Balsamo, G., & Lisbôa Mezzomo, C. (2025). Autistic spectrum disorder in adolescents: repercussions of late diagnosis. Educação, 48(1), e47560. https://doi.org/10.15448/1981-2582.2025.1.47560