SILVA, Daiane Gonçalves; SOUZA, Roberto Domingues de; FREITAS, Silvana Vieira Dias; SANTOS, Thaís Morais Lima
Abstract:
This article aims to investigate the impacts of late diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) on different dimensions of individual development. To this end, the emotional, social, and cognitive consequences were analyzed, as well as theimportance of early diagnosis and intervention strategies. This is a qualitative integrative research study based on a literature review conducted between August and October 2025. Eleven scientific publications were analyzed after an initial evaluation of publications made between 2009 and 2025, available in the Google Scholar, SciELO and BVS Psychology databases. The research concludes that early diagnosis benefits more effective interventions and promotes healthier development. However, it also states that late diagnosis can lead to significant and long-term impairment. The research also highlights a lower number of diagnoses among women and the importance of analyzing gender differences. It is concluded that early diagnosis and multidisciplinary action are crucial for the quality of life of people with ASD, and it is necessary to invest in public policies, professional training, and psychoeducation to reduce diagnostic invisibility and promote quality in mental health care.
