What If Autism Screening Is Negative but Concerns Persist?

PostedNovember 10, 2025

UpdatedNovember 10, 2025

ByMy Patient Advice

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

A negative autism screening with concerns can be a confusing experience for parents and caregivers. When screening results show no signs of autism, but concerns about a child’s development remain, it doesn’t necessarily mean that everything is fine. False negatives can occur where a screening doesn’t identify early autism signs due to various factors like age, coexisting conditions, or testing limitations.

If your child’s screening is negative but you still observe symptoms, it’s important not to dismiss your concerns. Ongoing symptoms such as social difficulties, communication delays, or repetitive behaviours should be addressed, even if the screening result isn’t conclusive.

What to Do After a Negative Autism Screening with Concerns

If a negative autism screening with concerns persists, here’s what you can do:

Monitor and Track Symptoms:

Continue observing your child’s behaviours and developmental progress. Keep a detailed record of any ongoing symptoms to provide clarity if a re-evaluation is necessary.

Request a Re-evaluation:

If concerns persist, ask for a re-assessment or second opinion from a paediatrician, developmental specialist, or clinical psychologist. Additional evaluations may give a clearer picture.

Explore Other Conditions:

Sometimes, behaviours that resemble autism traits may stem from other developmental or behavioural disorders. It’s helpful to explore other potential diagnoses with your healthcare provider.

Consider Early Intervention:

Even without a formal autism diagnosis, early intervention for communication, behavioural, or sensory difficulties can be beneficial.

A negative autism screening with concerns doesn’t mean the issue is resolved. Early signs should not be overlooked, and seeking further support and re-evaluation is essential for your child’s well-being.

For expert guidance and consultations, visit providers like Autism Detect, who can help you navigate the next steps and provide comprehensive assessments.

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to Autism Screening and Assessment Tools.

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.