What about the Girls? How Autism is Different for Girls

What about the Girls?

How Autism is Different for Girls

BY: MIMI LE, M.A., LMFT, LPC

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is typically known as a male-associated disorder, with three to four times as many males diagnosed with the disorder than females. Researchers have found that females with ASD have specific struggles that differ from their male counterparts. Let's explore four areas where girls with ASD differ from boys with ASD and how to overcome them.

FINDING PEERS AND ROLE MODELS Since there are more males diagnosed with ASD than females, we can clearly see in different settings such as school, social groups, play dates, and therapies that primarily males surround our ASD females. This leaves our girls with few female peers or older female ASD role models to look up to and socialize with regularly or at all.

However, having a close relationship with their mom, grandmothers, sisters, female cousins, female teachers, and other female influences add more to their lives than just female peers or role models ever could. This is because they genuinely know them and have their best interests in mind. They are able to personalize their interactions with them and use every learning opportunity to teach them life lessons.

Also, the knowledge of having someone they can truly rely on, look up to, and confide in will give them the confidence they need to navigate daily situations to bigger adult challenges in life. Having female classmates, peers, or role models will only be a bonus and will give them a different perspective so take the chance when it does arise.

MASKING IS COMMON IN GIRLS Children on the autism spectrum differ from each other immensely when it comes to behavior. However, according to researchers, girls with ASD can camouflage or mimic neurotypical behaviors much more fluidly than boys with ASD, such as learning and noticing nonverbal communication, reducing stimming behavior, and preparing small talk or scripts beforehand. This may make the acceptance of a diagnosis of ASD more difficult for parents or cause delays in getting girls the resources they need sooner.

PHYSICAL CHANGES AND CHALLENGES Females with ASD may face sensory issues when dealing with puberty. Also, they hit puberty much sooner than other girls. Preparation far in advance can help overcome these challenges in girls as they mature. Talk to them about puberty and all the necessary tools and products as early as 6 or 7 years of age.

OPEN COMMUNICATION IS KEY Parents are usually concerned and worried about their children’s reactions once they learn about their ASD diagnosis. However, the good news is that knowing their ASD diagnosis helps our girls. It’s a palpable relief when there is an actual explanation of why they are struggling in certain areas. It is best explained by a young female with ASD when she said, “I don’t feel any different. I am still the same me yesterday and five years before that. Now I know why, and maybe I can figure out how to work with it.”

The options for available social groups for girls in the community have varied greatly over the past four years. The Stewart Center is excited to finally be able to help fill that gap by offering a Girls’ Skill Building and Social Group here at The Westview School.

Mimi Le

Licensed Professional Counselor Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist

My passion lies in supporting the wellbeing of our children and their families. I am happy to answer any questions or inquiries you may have about psychotherapy services at The Stewart Center.