Autism in Females: 4 Things You Need to Know

Autism? Autism Spectrum? How about ASD? The words of old say the same thing. The trick is to identify women with Autism.

More than 200,000 people are diagnosed according to current trends. Autism impacts the nervous system and medical diagnosis including lab tests or imaging. Social interaction is also a marker of symptoms. 

ASD is a group of developmental disabilities. It is a broad range of conditions. Efficacy continues to grow in the 21st century. The challenge is that the increase does not happen evenly.

• Males with Autism: 1 in 34
• Females with Autism: 1 in 144

The question? Can it be a minor problem? Many contend that there are specialties. Others see difficulties in what people see and diagnose.

• Think
• Feel
• Gestures
• Touch
• Facial expressions

Females and Underdiagnosis

Women with Autism tend to have overt symptoms. They tend to be subtle too. It is common for them to withdraw in a variety of situations. In contrast, men tend to be more aggressive. Their dynamic behavior tends to stand out. In contrast, women do not.

Social Coping

Research in Autism Spectrum Disorder shows differences in female symptoms and behavior. Consider passivity to understand communication. Educators encourage them to “look behind the mask.”

Empower

• Wear makeup.
• Support social pressures.
• Encourage daily competitive activities.
• Support regular self-care.
• Wear clothes with accessories.

Nurture

• Look out for repetitive behaviors.
• Reduce/substitute negative interactions.
• Address desires or needs collectively.
• Procede action and contemplation (feelings).
• Limit socially inappropriate tasks.

Communication

• Seek support from immediate and extended family.
• Encourage interaction with peers and social groups.
• Establish rules for teachers and advocates at school.
• Discuss the importance of law enforcement and social authorities.
• Improve work performance with employers and colleagues.

Women on the Autistic Spectrum have lives all their own. They’re often described as quiet and shy. They have difficulty making and keeping friends. As a result of their inability to control feelings, they have real challenges. Surprisingly, they rely for others for interaction (often peers). It’s a real quandary. What do you think?

Question: How do you think that women with Autism are different?