How Autism Differs Between Boys and Girls
Autism spectrum disorders are typically diagnosed in childhood, and they can have a lifelong impact on an individual’s behavioral and social functioning. Children living with autism may experience sleep challenges, seizures, GI problems, and other symptoms.
The differences in autism between genders can affect how quickly a diagnosis is made. Early diagnosis and treatment can help children with autism improve their social skills and emotional regulation, so they are more equipped to manage their day-to-day independently.
Prevalence and Diagnosis
Autism is sometimes considered a condition that’s prevalent in boys, but researchers have found that while boys are diagnosed more frequently in childhood, girls catch up during their adolescent years. Research findings suggest that autism affects girls just as often as boys, but diagnosis often takes longer. One key feature that separates male autism vs female autism is that boys are more likely to have high-functioning autism and display more easily identifiable symptoms.
At 360 Behavioral Health, we are here to help you move forward with treatment in a caring and compassionate environment. We will assign you a dedicated Care Navigation team member to support your family through the intake and authorization process. Your child will receive an individualized treatment plan and will be supported and monitored by a 360 Behavioral Health Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA).
Behavioral Differences
There are notable behavioral markers that highlight how autism differs between boys and girls, with an emphasis on repetitive actions. According to a report published in 2023, parents of girls with autism are more likely to report symptoms like toe-walking, echolalia, literal language interpretation, trouble making eye contact, and atypical nonverbal communication. They also display interests more focused on crafting and people.
Autism symptoms in boys may present differently, with more externalized repetitive behaviors like echolalia, sensory avoidance, and speech repetition. Their interests are often more focused on objects, such as screens and vehicles, according to the 2023 report.
Masking and Socialization
The public may also be more likely to overlook autism symptoms in girls due to their ability to mask their autistic traits more effectively. There is a societal link to this phenomenon, as girls are held to higher expectations to fit in. They often blend in through social mimicry and scripting, presenting as quiet and going unnoticed. Boys, on the other hand, may have lower expectations to follow the status quo and display less self-control.
Neurological Insights
The cortical development of autistic boys and girls was found to differ in some research, suggesting that the thickness of the brain’s outer layer, the cortex, may also provide a biological explanation for the differences in diagnosis. This disparity in brain structure may explain why almost four males are diagnosed with autism for every female.
One study found that autistic girls had faster rates of cortical thinning into middle childhood than boys. More research is focusing on the neurological impact on different genders to get a complete picture of autism development in children.
ABA Therapy and Support
Applied behavior analysis (ABA) therapy is an individualized therapy designed to address the unique needs of both boys and girls with autism. It aims to help children with autism build meaningful skills and navigate the world more comfortably. Here are some examples of strategies used in ABA therapy and support:
- Teaching children to use new skills in various environments
- Encouraging positive behaviors through positive reinforcement
- Using images to help nonverbal children communicate their needs
- Breaking big skills down into more manageable steps
Give Your Child Early Intervention and Treatment at 360 Behavioral Health
360 Behavioral Health provides compassionate care for individuals living with autism. We offer a comprehensive range of support services from ABA therapy to respite and personal assistance. Our team of qualified and passionate clinicians works to improve the lives of children with autism and their families through individualized treatment and support plans.
We have over three decades of experience and are among the most established authorities in ABA-based health services. Book a consultation now or call us to get the support your child needs.
