Autism Spectrum Disorder: Do Boy's Symptoms Differ From Girls?
/Autism affects both boys and girls. However, research shows that boys receive a diagnosis of Autism four times more often than girls. Could it be that girls are frequently under-diagnosed and lack much-needed support?
With early intervention, children with Autism Spectrum Disorder can make fulfilling gains and achievements to better their quality of life; yet, it is known to be challenging to diagnose girls with Autism, especially those identified as highly functional. Why, you might ask? While the verdict is still pending on why girls appear to be less affected by Autism, research shows various reasons that they are probably more likely to be undiagnosed. A key finding is that the criteria for ASD diagnosis based on data from is almost all studies of boys with ASD.
Image by: Tara Winstead
Compiled & Edited By Lauren Nicoll
“Studies by the CDC concluded that children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are an increasing population, with 1 in 68 people diagnosed, 1 in 42 boys identified as having ASD, making boys more than four times as likely to be identified with ASD than girls.” - CDC
The Symptoms Of ASD Among Girls Are Different From Those Of Boys.
Each child on the autism spectrum has various symptoms, but there are a few standard features for girls with Autism. Girls with Autism tend to imitate others in social situations to blend in and have strong imaginations and often escape to different worlds of self-interest are not seen among boys on the spectrum. These behaviours sometimes go unnoticed and are misinterpreted. The diagnosis can generally overlap with other disorders like OCD, anxiety or eating disorders, or even more alarming; these girls are described as quiet or shy, resulting in girls are more likely to be diagnosed with Autism later than boys. Girls also tend to have hyperfocused interests in literature, art and music with strong sensory sensitivities, particularly surrounding sounds and touch (examples include high sensitivity to clothing tags, wearing certain fabrics, and increased sensitivity to scents)
Girls' Mask' More Often Than Boys
Masking, also known as camouflaging, can be done by both boys and girls; however, it's more prevalent in high functioning individuals on the spectrum. Autism experts noted that masking is more prevalent in girls with ASD and defined as imitating socially appropriate behaviours of a neurotypical peer.
Girls with ASD are also more aware of their stimming behaviours and are better at hiding them to blend in. Girls use this method as a protective shield and learn how to work around their challenges; yet, it often can become exhausting and stressful, leading to undiagnosed girls on the spectrum experiencing mental disorders like depression, anxiety or eating disorders.
If you feel your daughter might be autistic, make an appointment with a doctor - a timely diagnosis with early intervention can work wonders for your child.
Sources: https://www.autismawareness.com.au/could-it-be-autism/autism-and-girls/,
https://iancommunity.org/ssc/girls-autism-hiding-plain-sight
https://www.highspeedtraining.co.uk/hub/autism-females/, https://www.autismparentingmagazine.com/autism-masking