How and when to disclose

From Autism Transition Handbook

Your young adult is an expert on his experience of being a person on the spectrum and has a unique opportunity to let others know, to the extent possible and appropriate, what it is like. In addition, it is important for him to understand that disclosure is not an “all or nothing” proposition. Each individual will need to learn both how and when to disclose, in addition to how much information he needs to disclose, in what format, and to what end. Disclosure is a much more complex and personal process than simply saying, “I have autism spectrum disorder.” Even young adults with fewer skills and more complex learning or behavioral challenges can effectively and appropriately disclose by (as one example) using preprinted information cards that they may hand out.