Should parents get checked if their child is diagnosed with autism?

SHAH ALAM - A recent interview with Irish professional footballer James McClean has sparked discussions about whether parents should consider seeking autism assessments if their child is diagnosed with autism.

McClean shared his personal journey with autism in a video that was posted on Life on the Spectrum Instagram.

"His story is a powerful reminder of the importance of understanding and embracing autism. This journey has not only brought his family closer but also raised awareness and inspired many.

"Let’s continue to spread love and acceptance for all," the caption read.

In the video, McClean described how his daughter, now six years old, exhibited a mindset similar to that of a much younger child, around two-and-a-half or three years old.

Since his daughter's diagnosis, he said their lives have changed significantly for the better.

Despite the challenges, he highlighted how it has made them more patient and understanding, particularly in empathising with his daughter's struggles.

He revealed that when his daughter was diagnosed with autism and global developmental delay, it prompted him to explore his own condition.

To his surprise, McClean discovered that he, too, was on the spectrum.

"I can become quite emotional and my emotions can be heightened over small things, especially during her assessments.

"It really makes you reflect on yourself," he said in the video.

McClean admitted to being initially hesitant about undergoing testing and receiving a diagnosis, given his profession and concerns about potential repercussions.

"I'm doing this for my daughter. So, if it helps me get a better understanding of her, I went and did the test.

"It came back with I'm also on the spectrum and I'm proud of it," he said.

This revelation has led to questions about whether other parents of autistic children should undergo similar assessments.

The post garnered praise for McClean's decision to undergo testing and for his bravery in sharing his experience.

@zeinvirani commented "Every word of this is exactly how so many of us feel. Thank you. What a wonderful young man and father."

@noelledawn_sparrow expressed gratitude, saying "Thank you for sharing this story! It's amazing how the UK has embraced the neurodivergent community. I hope the United States can do the same."

@t.r.i.x.i.a wrote "Let's spread this to normalise the treatment or on how we react and try to understand and give compassion for those people who have the spectrum."

@breukelen_native commented, "I have struggled for so many years because of this issue that nobody was talking about."

@suzannephizacklea said “Absolutely, 100 per cent of the whole family should be tested at the same time, save time on the tremendous waiting lists. My grandson's diagnosis took 11 years."

@carriemarvin64 commented, "My son was late diagnosed and then we started figuring out, oh ya, my husband does those things too."

The interview sparked meaningful conversations about autism acceptance and understanding within the community.