Autism can present differently in boys and girls. It is important to understand these differences to provide the best support.
Key Takeaways
The current ratio of males to females with autism is often put at 4:1 however recent research suggests the actual figure could be as low as 2:1
While boys with autism are more likely to have outwardly challenging behaviours, (indicating underlying issues, such as anxiety) girls with autism are more vulnerable to internalising problems
Our understanding of how autism affects females is still emerging.
Gender differences in autism
Until recently, autism was thought to overwhelmingly affect boys. The current ratio of males to females with autism is often put at 4:1 (four boys to every girl). However, recent research suggests the actual figure could be as low as 2:1 as we increase our understanding of autism and how it can present differently in each gender.
Why are the numbers greater for boys?
- Traditionally male-based diagnostic tools
The diagnostic criteria for autism are largely based on how autism presents in males. This has led to a general lack of awareness among professionals of female autistic characteristics and girls can often ‘slip under the radar’ or get misdiagnosed. This is mostly likely to be the case for girls with good language skills and typical (or high) IQ levels. - Genetics
Being female does appear to protect the brain from many developmental disabilities, not just autism. There is emerging evidence that girls with autism need more extreme genetic mutations than boys to develop autism
What can autism in girls look like?
While there is much less research on how autism specifically impacts girls, recent studies do suggest some key differences. Generally speaking, girls with autism:
- Are more likely to ‘mask’ (cover up) their autism by imitating others and suppressing their autistic traits,
- Are more likely to have better social and language skills,
- Are less likely to have restricted or repetitive behaviours (although they might simply be masking them better)
- Are more likely to have special interests that appear typical (such as an interest in animals, music, art or literature),
- Are more likely to talk about their feelings, and therefore, are less likely to outwardly exhibit physical behavioural issues.
Victorian Autism Association, AMAZE, further adds that girls with autism may also:
- Have a strong imagination (might escape into the worlds of nature or fiction),
- Not want to play cooperatively with female peers (for example, want to dictate the rules of play or preferring to play alone to maintain control),
- Have a tendency to ‘mimic’ others in social situations in order to blend in
For autistic girls to thrive, it’s important they have access to a timely and accurate diagnosis, and the informed supports that come with it. A delayed or missed diagnosis can impede their education and development, as well as their social and community participation.
While boys with autism are more likely to have outwardly challenging behaviours, (indicating underlying issues, such as anxiety) girls with autism are more vulnerable to internalising problems.
As our understanding of how autism affects females is still emerging, it is important parents and professionals alike stay updated on the best ways to specifically support girls and women on the spectrum.
