Our son would definitely be diagnosed with Autism or Aspergers if he were a child today. He didn't talk til age 4 and didn't potty train til then too. He was very bright and learned many defense mechanisms and could fool many . I always knew something wasn't quite right. Despite my trying to get him help in school...I was told he had a high IQ so therefore nothing was wrong with him. He was mainstreamed and had many problems in school. I sent him to a private HS and that helped him because of the small classes. He seems to be delayed in most things...even getting a driver's license and general things ..he had about a 10 year delay.
HOWEVER, because I was a tough MOM and wouldn't accept Dr's telling me he should be institutionalized and I fought for him to be put in gifted classes in elementary school ( seeing that is all they would say was his problem )...he excelled. He had a paper route as a 12 year old and worked at Burger King when 16. He saved his money and learned the value of a dollar. He is 40 now and lives on his own and has a wonderful job managing a furniture store. There were lots of bumps in the road to get him to here...and he still isnt married...but has been engaged and is again dating.
I am so glad I didnt listen to the advice the PROFESSIONALS tried to tell me way back then. I am so proud of his accomplishments....he even has published a book 10 years ago on gaming ...one of his hobbies when younger . Grandson diagnosed now and is getting so much help. I am happy I fought to get laws passed !
Mesa, AZ