Exploring Factors of Diagnostic Timing Among Black Autistic Youth

The goal of the present study was to compare profiles among Black families of autistic youth who were identified Early (≤ 2 years of age), Mid (age 3 or 4), and Delayed (≥ 5 years of age) to better identify the characteristics that contribute to early ASD identification and delayed ASD identification. Black caregivers with autistic youth (N = 101) were divided into Early (N = 34), Mid (N = 39), and Delayed (N = 28) groups and compared on (a) the age at which signs of autism signs were first noticed, (b) wait times, (c) previous misdiagnoses rates, and (d) racial barriers experienced during the diagnostic process. The results revealed differences between the diagnostic profiles. Specifically, (a) Delayed families noticed the first signs of autism significantly later, (b) Early families had significantly smaller wait times between age of noticing signs of autism and age of receiving the diagnosis, (c) the odds of receiving a later or delayed autism diagnosis was nearly three times higher for caregivers who reported receiving a misdiagnosis, and (d) there were no significant differences in racial barriers experienced between Early, Mid, and Delayed families. Challenges in receiving a timely diagnosis remain for some Black autistic youth. To improve early identification for Black autistic youth who are at risk for receiving delayed diagnostic care, further research should examine factors and practices that improve autism knowledge among professionals and caregivers, enhance assessment practices, and integrate culturally responsive practices into assessment and screening procedures.