World Autism Acceptance Month - Autism and Girls

Mary_Scope

Part One - World Autism Acceptance Month – Introduction for Parents and Carers
Part Two - World Autism Acceptance Month - Practical Strategies for Parents and Carers
Part Four - World Autism Acceptance Month - Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA)

For a long time, autism was seen as something that mostly affected boys and men and girls and women often overlooked or completely left out of the picture. But that’s simply not true. Autistic people exist across all genders.

While we have come a long way in understanding the unique experiences of autistic women and girls, outdated stereotypes and assumptions still shape society’s view of autism.

Although research and professional awareness is starting to catch up, there are still major barriers to diagnosis, recognition and support, especially for those whose traits don’t fit the traditional (and often male-focused) profile of autism.

Autism in girls often looks very different from the “classic autism traits” that we are told about.

Girls are more likely to..
• Mask or “camouflage” their difficulties at school and then melt down at home

• Be misdiagnosed with anxiety, depression or even borderline personality disorder before autism is ever considered

• Internalize their struggles which leads to low self-esteem, shutdowns and/or school refusal
• Seem “social” but actually feel isolated or constantly confused by social rules

Many autistic girls are diagnosed in their teenagers or adulthood. Some are never diagnosed at all. They often fall through the cracks, especially if they’re high-masking, academically able or don’t fit the stereotypes associated with autism.

Autistic Girls Network is great place for all things related to autism and girls and women and has lots of services available such as mentoring, face to face groups, family workshops and online support.

If you’re a parent of an autistic girl (diagnosed or not), I’d love to hear your story. How is your daughter doing now?

And if you're just starting to suspect that your daughter may be autistic, you're not alone — this space is for you too and we’re here to support you on the community!