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What are the signs of autism in girls?
For decades, autism research and awareness have primarily focused on boys, creating a gap in understanding of autism in girls. This oversight has left many families of girls with autism feeling unheard and unsupported as they search for answers about their child’s development.
Autism in girls often goes underrecognized because they frequently show more subtle signs compared to boys. Girls with autism may exhibit different behavioral traits or coping strategies, which can mask their symptoms. For instance, they might mimic social behaviors or develop specific interests that align with societal norms, making their challenges less visible to others. As a result, many girls spend years without a proper diagnosis, missing out on early interventions that could help them develop essential skills and confidence.
With growing awareness and improved screening tools, professionals are beginning to better understand the unique ways autism appears in girls. In this blog by ABA Centers of Pennsylvania, we’ll explore why this overlook happens, the signs of autism in girls, and how families can ensure their daughters receive the care and support they need to thrive.
Why Autism in Girls Is Often Overlooked
According to the CDC, autism is over three times more common in boys than in girls. This discrepancy may contribute to the commonly held belief that girls “don’t have autism”.
However, research shows that girls and women often present different symptoms that may not align with the typical characteristics observed in men. But why? Let’s explore some common factors:
Gender Bias in Diagnostic Criteria
The original diagnostic models for autism were developed primarily through studies of boys, according to research. This gender bias has led to a “male-centric” view of autism, where diagnostic tools are better at identifying behaviors typically seen in boys. Because girls with autism often display different behaviors, their challenges may not align perfectly with these outdated models.
The “Masking” Phenomenon
Many girls naturally feel more socially motivated or have conditioned themselves to conform to social expectations. They often mask their autism traits by mimicking peers, rehearsing responses, or hiding behaviors in public. While this strategy helps them blend in, it also makes their struggles invisible to teachers, doctors, and even parents. Over time, according to Autism in Adulthood, masking can lead to emotional exhaustion, anxiety, lower self-esteem, and depression, making it even harder to access support.
Misinterpretation of Behaviors
Some autism traits, like intense interests or sensitivity to sensory input, are often dismissed as “personality quirks” in girls. For example, a girl intensely focused on reading or animals may be seen as simply passionate rather than displaying a sign of autism in girls. Similarly, difficulties with social cues might be mistaken for shyness rather than a neurological difference.
Key Signs of Autism in Girls
Recognizing the signs of autism in girls is critical for timely intervention. While every child is unique, here are some common indicators to watch for:
- Strong Social Awareness Paired with Anxiety: Girls may crave friendships but struggle to navigate group dynamics, often feeling overwhelmed or excluded.
- Masking in Social Situations: Acting “typical” in public but experiencing meltdowns at home due to built-up stress.
- Highly Specific Interests: These interests may seem socially acceptable, such as animals, books, or art, but individuals pursue them with unusual intensity or focus.
- Sensory Challenges: Extreme sensitivity to clothing textures, loud noises, or certain smells, making everyday activities difficult.
- Perfectionism and Overcompliance: Girls may become “people pleasers,” masking their confusion or discomfort to avoid criticism.
- Co-occurring Mental Health Conditions: Higher rates of anxiety, depression, or eating disorders, which can complicate diagnosis.
Unique Challenges Faced by Girls with Autism
While boys and girls with autism may share many of the same ASD signs, girls often face unique and additional challenges that can complicate their experiences, including:
Emotional and Social Struggles
Because girls are often more aware of their differences, they may feel isolated or misunderstood. This self-awareness can lead to low self-esteem and heightened risk for mental health challenges like depression or social anxiety.
Delayed Diagnosis and Missed Support
Without an early diagnosis, girls miss out on services like early intervention programs, speech therapy, or social skills training. By the time challenges become visible, often during the teen years, they may have already developed coping strategies that mask their actual needs.
Increased Vulnerability
Unfortunately, studies show that girls with autism are at higher risk of bullying and abuse, partly due to difficulties interpreting social cues and setting boundaries.
How ABA Therapy Supports Girls with Autism
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is a research-backed therapy proven to help children with autism develop essential skills. While ABA benefits all individuals on the spectrum, it offers specific advantages for girls with autism, who may have unique needs:
- Through targeted programs, ABA helps girls navigate friendships, improve communication, and reduce the anxiety associated with social interactions.
- ABA focuses on daily living skills, from self-care routines to problem-solving strategies, fostering greater independence and confidence.
- Therapists work with children to develop coping mechanisms for sensory sensitivities and overwhelming emotions, reducing meltdowns and improving quality of life.
- Parent training is a key part of ABA. Families learn strategies to support their daughters at home and advocate effectively within schools and healthcare systems.
ABA Centers of Pennsylvania: Your Partner in Autism Care
At ABA Centers of Pennsylvania, we understand that every child with autism is unique, and girls often require tailored approaches that reflect their experiences and strengths. Our services include:
- Early intervention programs for young children
- Personalized ABA therapy at home, in our centers, and in schools
- Parent and caregiver training to build skills and confidence
- Community events to foster connection and inclusion
We help families across Pennsylvania navigate the challenges of autism with compassion and evidence-based strategies. By working together, we can ensure that no girl with autism is left unseen or unsupported.
If you’re ready to take the next step, contact us today at (844) 444-7496 or fill out our online form for a free consultation. Together, we can help your loved ones thrive!
