Autism in Women and Girls: A unique presentation
According to the DSM-5-TR, autism in women and girls presents differently than boys and men. The current diagnostic criteria are more aligned with the expression of autistic traits in boys and men. Autistic girls may mimic others in social situations, like copying facial expressions and making intentional eye contact, even if it causes internal discomfort or anxiety. They may also suppress stimming behaviors, like hand-flapping or providing scripted responses, to fit in and avoid standing out. They often learn these strategies from peers or media. In addition, persistent interests in girls and women are less stereotypical and conform more to social norms even though they exhibit the same depth and breath.
Women and girls with autism often have:
- Better reciprocal conversation skills
- Higher likelihood of sharing interests with others
- Better ability to understand verbal and nonverbal communication
- Better ability to modify their behavior based on the situation
- Less obvious repetitive behaviors
- More socially accepted special interests (like celebrities or animals)
How Can an Autism Diagnosis Help ?
Similar to males with autism, early intervention is crucial for women and girls. A diagnosis provides timely access to therapies and resources, helping the individual and their family learn how to manage autism. Find information about getting an autism evaluation for women and girls at Therapy Dynamics.
Even if diagnosed later in life, diagnosis is still valuable, as delayed diagnosis can lead to issues like poor self-esteem, depression, and vulnerability to bullying.
While those diagnosed later may need to catch up on social skills and coping mechanisms, most women and girls find relief and support after receiving their diagnosis.
Meeting with autism experts, therapists, and other professionals can provide valuable assistance for long-term well-being.
Support For Autism in Women and Girls
For women and girls with autism or undiagnosed autism, finding support is crucial. If you’re looking for assistance, consider the following:
- Joining support groups or communities: You can connect with like-minded individuals facing similar challenges. A good support network for girls is the Autistic Girls Network. They have a lot of information about autism in girls and host their own Facebook group. There is a Women’s Support Group online at the Autism Society of Minnesota.
- Reading books and articles about the female autism experience: “The Spectrum Girl’s Survival Guide” is written by Siena Castellon. She’s a girl with autism who, at a young age, is using her platform to give a voice to autistic girls worldwide. Another good books is “Life on the Autism Spectrum: A guide for girls and women” by Karen McKibbin
- Talking to health professionals: Doctors, therapists, or counselors may have the answers you seek.
- Taking social skills classes: Social Skills classes just for girls help them navigate challenging situations and build relationships.
- Finding the right therapy: Behavioral therapies, play therapy, CBT, music therapy, and art therapy are just some options.
Girls with co-occurring disorders, such as OCD and anorexia or trauma survivors, may need more specialists on their team.
As more girls receive an ASD diagnosis, specialists are becoming more aware of the unique way girls on the autism spectrum present and are developing new ways to help them thrive.
