Is There a Risk of Misdiagnosing Autism Due to Overlapping Symptoms?

PostedNovember 17, 2025

UpdatedNovember 17, 2025

ByMy Patient Advice

Author: Lucia Alvarez, MSc | Reviewed by: Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Yes, there is a genuine risk of misdiagnosing autism when symptoms overlap with other conditions. Autism shares several behavioural traits with ADHD, anxiety disorders, and certain language impairments, making it possible for individuals to be wrongly identified or overlooked. This risk is higher when assessments rely on limited information or when clinicians do not use a multidisciplinary approach.

For example, a child with ADHD may display impulsivity and social difficulties that resemble autistic traits, while an autistic child with strong verbal skills might be misdiagnosed with a language disorder instead. Research found significant symptom overlap between autism and ADHD, emphasising the need for comprehensive evaluations to ensure accurate diagnosis.

How Overlapping Symptoms Can Lead to Misdiagnosis

While trained professionals work to ensure accuracy, the similarities between autism and other conditions can make diagnostic clarity challenging. Below are some key ways in which overlap may occur:

Similar Social Difficulties

Both autism and social anxiety can involve reduced eye contact and discomfort in group settings. Without careful assessment, these traits may be incorrectly attributed to the wrong condition.

Repetitive Behaviours in Multiple Conditions

Behaviours such as fidgeting, pacing, or ritualistic actions can be present in autism, ADHD, or obsessive-compulsive disorder, increasing the likelihood of diagnostic error.

Communication Challenges Across Disorders

Speech delays or unusual language patterns can also appear in developmental language disorder or hearing impairments, not just in autism.

Sensory Processing Differences

Heightened sensitivity to sounds, textures, or lights is a hallmark of autism but can also be part of anxiety disorders or sensory processing disorder, adding to the overlap.

Summary

While the risk of misdiagnosing autism due to overlapping symptoms exists, comprehensive evaluations involving developmental history, behavioural observation, and specialist input can significantly reduce errors.

For personalised advice and guidance on autism assessments, visit providers like Autism Detect for personal consultations.

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to Autism Diagnostic Criteria (DSM-5, ICD-11).

Lucia Alvarez, MSc

Author

Lucia Alvarez is a clinical psychologist with a Master’s in Clinical Psychology and extensive experience providing evidence-based therapy and psychological assessment to children, adolescents, and adults. Skilled in CBT, DBT, and other therapeutic interventions, she has worked in hospital, community, and residential care settings. Her expertise includes grief counseling, anxiety management, and resilience-building, with a strong focus on creating safe, supportive environments to improve mental well-being.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the author's privacy.

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Reviewer

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez is a UK-trained physician with an MBBS and experience in general surgery, cardiology, internal medicine, gynecology, intensive care, and emergency medicine. She has managed critically ill patients, stabilised acute trauma cases, and provided comprehensive inpatient and outpatient care. In psychiatry, Dr. Fernandez has worked with psychotic, mood, anxiety, and substance use disorders, applying evidence-based approaches such as CBT, ACT, and mindfulness-based therapies. Her skills span patient assessment, treatment planning, and the integration of digital health solutions to support mental well-being.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the reviewer's privacy.