Dr. Stephan Behnke (Monitor on Psychology) identifies three levels of significance for a diagnosis: **Clinical:** Defines the condition and the correct treatment. A false-negative diagnosis means wrong treatment or denial of treatment entirely. **Personal:** Becomes part of how the person feels about themselves. For many with AS, the diagnosis makes their lifelong "different-ness" finally make sense. For others, integrating it into self-image is difficult — but without it, they're denied services and continue struggling with no resolution. **Social:** Opens the way to more acceptance of unusual behavior and encourages seeking services like counseling. A diagnosis gives the condition a recognized name that others understand. These three levels apply to any diagnosis but are especially acute for AS — where the "invisible" nature means misdiagnosis or denial leaves individuals stranded without understanding or support. **Source:** Lovett, *Solutions for Adults with Asperger Syndrome*, Ch 2 (p45) See also: [[Three Functions of Diagnosis]], [[AS Misdiagnosis Risks]]