When most people think about autism, they often picture a socially withdrawn male, deeply immersed in specific, niche interests. This stereotype has been perpetuated in both movies/television and research. Autism in females often looks different, which can lead to underdiagnosis and a general misunderstanding. As a clinical psychologist, I’ve seen how these differences play out, and it is worth exploring how female autism presents.
The Invisible Diagnosis
For decades, autism research has focused predominantly on males. In fact, the ratio of diagnosed males to females is estimated to be around 4 to 1. However, emerging research suggests that this gap may be partly due to how autism presents in females. Girls and women with autism often exhibit subtle symptoms, making them less likely to fit the classic diagnostic criteria.
How Autism Presents in Females
Camouflaging: Many autistic females are very adept at masking their symptoms by mimicking neurotypical social behaviours. They might imitate peers, rehearse social scripts, or suppress their natural inclinations to fit in. While this helps them navigate social situations, it often comes at a significant emotional cost, leading to anxiety, exhaustion, or even burnout.
Social Interests: While autistic boys might gravitate toward solitary or highly specialised interests (like video games), autistic girls tend to pursue interests that may appear more socially acceptable, such as fashion, art, or books. This can make their differences less noticeable.
Friendships: Autistic girls might maintain small, intense friendships rather than isolating themselves entirely. However, these friendships can often be fraught with misunderstandings or conflicts due to difficulties with social nuance.
Sensory Sensitivities: Like their male counterparts, autistic females may experience heightened sensory sensitivities, but they might downplay or hide these experiences to avoid standing out.
The Consequences of Misdiagnosis
Undiagnosed or late-diagnosed autism in females can have profound implications. Many girls and women spend years being misdiagnosed with conditions like anxiety, depression, or borderline personality disorder. Without understanding the root cause of their struggles, they may feel isolated, misunderstood, and unsupported.
Moving Toward Better Recognition
To bridge this gap, it’s essential that clinicians, educators, and families educate themselves about the unique ways autism manifests in females. Here are some key steps:
Expanding Diagnostic Tools: Current diagnostic criteria need to evolve to include the subtler presentations of autism in females. At Cognitive Assessments Australia, we use multiple different tests and approaches to an autism assessment that are more likely to pick up differences between boys/men and girls/women.
Training Professionals: Psychologists, paediatricians, and teachers should be trained to recognise the signs of autism in girls and women. Our psychologists understand how autism in females present and are able to account for this during the assessment process and with ongoing counselling.
Promoting Self-Advocacy: Encouraging women and girls to share their experiences can help dismantle stereotypes and promote understanding.
Creating Supportive Environments: Schools and workplaces can play a critical role in fostering acceptance and providing accommodations tailored to individual needs.
If you would like to speak to someone about a diagnosis, please contact us.
Comments