Autism Traits in Girls vs. Boys

Autism spectrum disorder (or ASD) is diagnosed four times more often in males than in females. Some research suggests that it could be because of the way ASD is diagnosed. Specifically, the symptoms that are included in the assessment for obtaining an autism spectrum disorder diagnosis might be more applicable to the ways males behave as opposed to females. On the other hand, it could be true that males do indeed experience autism more often than females. Research that has been done in exploring ASD in males versus females has shown that the symptoms of ASD sometimes look different in girls as compared to how they look in boys.

One reason for this, that some researchers suggest, is that it is possible that females mask their symptoms more effectively than males. Either by the way that females are conditioned in society or by their natural way of interacting with others, females tend to be able to “put on a mask” to cover up or hide autistic traits. Males are less likely to control their behavior, or maybe they have less inclination to “fit in”. Also, females are often able to learn to imitate their peers to try to fit in. Although some females with ASD have more noticeable behaviors, research shows that many females with ASD are quiet and reserved therefore others don’t notice them much.

When females are diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder, it’s likely because they have behavioral issues or developmental delays. Females with higher IQs are often undiagnosed. Females with higher IQ, who don’t show behavioral issues, often don’t stand out — and, therefore, don’t get diagnosed as often with ASD. Many of them who have average or above-average IQ use their intelligence level to observe and assess their surroundings and then they develop coping mechanisms to get by in their daily life.

They also learn the process of how to imitate others even if it doesn’t align with their true nature. For instance, they learn to fake small talk when they feel that this behavior is expected of them or they smile and nod to show that they are listening even if it makes them uncomfortable. They also learn to get through life by putting in extra effort to manage day-to-day responsibilities, social interactions, and so on. Girls who are “higher functioning” can often pass through school and other situations, and even get through many years of childhood at home, without having an adult suspect that they might have ASD. This prevents proper diagnosing of autism in females.

Many females with ASD engage in activities that don’t bother other people or that don’t make them stand out. For example, a female who has autism might have a special interest in reading or doing academic activities, which may not appear as a behavior that is too odd in the eyes of teachers or parents. This interest might even be seen as the child just being a good kid, although it could be a symptom of their autism. Some girls with autism may be seen as shy or introverted, which is often more acceptable in many cultures as compared to this type of personality being less acceptable when seen in males. Males are often more likely to be expected to be extroverted, aggressive, and social. When girls aren’t as social as society thinks they should be, they are simply thought of as being shy and quiet.

Allison Green
Boston Tutoring Services