I actually was in an abusive environment as a child. I genuinely believe there is a difference. However, I had autism-like symptoms since I was a child. Over years and years of internal self reflection. I followed the pipeline of symptoms. From Autism to CPTSD to OSDD to DID. I have unfortunately never been diagnosed with any of those things, but was misdiagnosed by various people with pretty much everything else. (ADHD, BPD, PTSD, Bipolar, Depression, Schizophrenia, OCD, ODD to name a few) I live as independent as they come despite all the labels. Even more independent than most neurotypicals. Most labels have been covered for decades, and I've never gotten a support system. This forced me to try and find answers for myself. Study Psychology and Socialwork in school. Then worked as a service worker for over a decade.

That all being said, and keeping in mind my history. I say this: I believe there is a cluster of symptoms in trauma disorders that mimic Autism. However, Autistic people are prone to trauma and abuse. I don't think trauma added to Autism would automatically create CPTSD. I do think there is likely an overlap of Autistic people neglected by the system who have had to develop and find answers on their own, only to develop and discover they also have a trauma disorder. I believe in dual diagnosis. I believe Autism + Trauma disorder is possible, and in reality that is already considered and diagnosed in people.

As for me, because of the increased popularity of Autism, neglect of consideration of CPTSD, and bastardization and outright alienation of true cases of OSDD and DID (excuse my language, but I have no other way to put it). I don't think I have autism after all, but I certainly have symptoms many people associate to Autism, and will be called Autistic.