مجلة الدراسات والبحوث الاجتماعية
Volume 13, Numéro 3, Pages 61-72
2026-01-10

Mediatizing Adult Autism: A Step Towards Better Understanding And Social Inclusion.

Authors : Medjahdi Oussama . Bekkou Seddik . Tabti Madjid .

Abstract

The initial documentation of autism occurred in children, with Kanner identifying 11 cases in 1943. However, specialists acknowledge that autism has always existed, even if unrecognized before the 20th century. In Algeria, interest in autism has surged over the past fifteen years. While the diagnosis of autism in children is generally well-established, particularly for typical forms, adults are rarely diagnosed in general psychiatry, despite an estimated 1% prevalence in the overall population. This under diagnosis raises questions about the visibility of autistic adults, who also suffer from a lack of media representation. Autism can have varied outcomes in adulthood: some individuals integrate into society with ongoing social difficulties, others show partial improvement but still depend on family support, and severe cases involve significant mental retardation and behavioural challenges. Enhancing the training of general psychiatrists will improve the diagnosis and care of autistic adults.

Keywords

Autism in Adults ; Evolution ; Diagnosis ; Socio-Professional Integration ; Media