Why Are So Many Autistic Girls and Women Still Missing Out on Early Identification?

Despite advancements in autism assessment, many girls and women remain unidentified or receive a diagnosis later in life. This infographic outlines the contributing factors to this disparity in early identification and its broader implications.

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Autistic Women and Girls: The Early Identification Gap

1. Incorrect Stereotypes
   
   1. Autism was presumed a ‘male condition’
   2. Consequently, studies included more boys than girls
   3. Research is still seeking more girls for studies
2. Incomplete Research
   
   1. Gender bias can skew symptoms toward male presentation, like playing alone
   2. Historically, researchers presumed being female automatically lowered probability of autism
3. Compensatory Behaviors
   1. Girls are more likely to mask autistic traits, or to take a focused interest in socially acceptable topics like books and music
   2. Camouflaging symptoms is easier at an early age, the most crucial time for diagnosis
4. Limited Diagnosis
   1. Clinicians sometimes take a “wait and see” approach with young girls, delaying early identification
   2. Early identification is more likely when girls have co-occurring conditions like:
      1. Seizures
      2. Hyperactivity
      3. ADHD
      4. OCD
      5. Intellectual Disability
      6. Challenges in eating, sleep, or temperment
      7. Depression or other mood disorders