Symptoms and Diagnostic Approaches for Autism in Females
Autism, a developmental condition that affects social interaction and communication, often presents differently in girls compared to boys. According to recent studies, girls with autism may exhibit less intense or overt autism traits, better social and communication skills, and more effective masking or camouflaging behaviours [1][3][4].
This unique presentation of autism in girls can lead to underdiagnosis, as diagnostic criteria and tools have historically been based on male presentations of autism [2][3]. Girls with autism may have fewer social challenges and demonstrate relatively better communication abilities, enabling them to adapt better socially, such as in classroom settings [3]. Their special interests may also align more closely with socially typical topics, contrasting with the often more restricted or unusual interests seen in boys [3].
One of the reasons for the underdiagnosis of autism in females is the tendency to overlook their subtle social difficulties and better verbal skills [4]. Additionally, masking behaviours and social compensation by girls can hide the underlying challenges, leading to missed or delayed diagnoses until later childhood, adolescence, or even adulthood when social demands increase and masking becomes more difficult [1][3].
Research indicates that there may be around 39% more women who have autism than are currently identified [1]. However, early in development (e.g., toddlers under 5), studies have found little difference between boys and girls with autism in terms of core symptoms [5]. As children grow, differences in the expression and recognition of symptoms tend to emerge, possibly due to biological and social environmental factors [5].
Early diagnosis of autism is crucial as it helps children and their families access support and better understand certain behaviours. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that boys are four times more likely to have ASD than girls [6]. More research into the differences in autism symptoms between the sexes may help improve diagnosis methods for females [7].
It is important to note that autism can cause stress for some people, and girls may react to stress in ways that are not immediately noticeable, such as self-harm [8]. Autistic children may be more vulnerable to bullying or abuse, and parents, caregivers, and teachers should be aware of this to provide support to autistic children and educate non-autistic children about the condition [9].
Autism is a complex condition that can range from mild to severe, with some autistic people needing additional support and others being able to participate fully in everyday society [10]. As girls get older and social norms and friendships become more complex, they may find it harder to relate to others, potentially leading to a later diagnosis [11].
Understanding and recognising autism in girls is essential for early intervention and support. Improving awareness and adapting diagnostic approaches to these gender differences is critical for early identification and appropriate support for autistic girls [1][3].
- Aq research suggests that a significant number of individuals with autism are undiagnosed, particularly females, due to differences in presentation and diagnosis criteria.
- The science of predictive medicine has taken strides in recognizing the unique manifestations of autism in girls, aiming to combat underdiagnosis.
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