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[quote=Anonymous]We just had my daughter retested because she is heading to college in the fall. She is classic ADHD, but also quirky.  We were surprised that the psychologist also thinks she is on the ASD spectrum, although more like what we would have called Asperger's in the past.  It doesn't really bother us what the label is, but I keep thinking over it and I just don't see the ASD.  Maybe I have antiquated ideas about what ASD can be, but I'll give you a few characteristics that seem to conflict:

-no language delays, talked early
-absolutely loved pretend play as a child, the pretend play was very complex and would often create and lead pretend play sessions for groups of kids
-extremely social, always wants to be where the action is, often the loudest and happiest one in the group
-extremely talkative, asks many questions
-extremely empathetic and loves taking care of others
-very athletic, enjoys taking risks (loves mountain biking, including going as fast as she can down difficult trails)
-gets bored extremely easily at home, wants to be outside and with friends as much as possible
-trouble getting schoolwork completed, thinks most high school assignments are torture, but enjoys challenging, out of the box, assignments
-adderall works well for her and does not make her more anxious
-executive functioning deficits, very forgetful

On the other hand, there are some characteristics of ASD, which are also sometimes ADHD:
-social issues, makes friends easily and people are drawn to her, but has trouble maintaining those friendships (I think because she can be so intense)
-lots of intense interests and will go on and on about them if anyone shows slight interest, but has gotten better about picking up on cues that others are getting annoyed
-loves to draw and can often get lost in her own world while drawing or doing art
-extreme anxiety, which has settled since starting prozac
-has some routines that she likes to do everyday (juggling her soccer ball, drawing a sketch in the morning, stretches and strengthening exercises). She doesn't necessarily have to do them at a certain time of day, but will get stressed if she doesn't get a chance to do them.
-rigidity (hard to move on from tasks) and black/white thinking
-extremely critical of herself, makes negative comments about herself

Psychologist recommended community college, but daughter wants to go to college.  She is also a talented athlete, and the small schools we are looking at have all extended athletic offers We are looking at small, private colleges with really good disability supports close to home. I don't want to send her and have her fall flat, but she is so desperate for independence. Neurospsych showed superior scores in many areas, with very low processing speed and working memory. Anyway have a child with a similar profile?  What route did your child take after high school?[/quote]

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