Revealing Your ASD Child's Diagnosis to Other Family Members
"How should we go about telling my parents (and other family members) that our son has been diagnosed with autism (high-functioning)? They have always thought his behavior was odd. We believe strongly they should know so they can help to one degree or another with his special needs." Disclosing your youngster's diagnosis to other family members (e.g., grandparents, aunts and uncles, cousins, etc.) is a sensitive issue. Divulging this information should occur in partnership with your high-functioning autistic youngster in order to determine how much - or how little – extended family members need to know. In weighing your decision, ask yourself the following: Can other family members be trusted to honor this disclosure? Can they treat the subject with sensitivity and respect? Can I foresee their reactions? How often do I see these relatives? If there's potential for misunderstanding and conflict, how will I handle it? If they are intrigued and interes