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8 Signs of Autism in Girls

signs of autism in girls

8 Signs of Autism in Girls

While there are no distinct differences in the core symptoms of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) between boys and girls, research suggests that there may be variations in how the disorder manifests and is diagnosed. Girls with ASD often exhibit unique characteristics that can sometimes make it challenging to recognize their challenges and provide them with appropriate support. In this article, we will explore eight signs of autism in girls.

Social Masking

Girls with ASD may possess a remarkable ability to imitate and copy social behaviors in order to fit in. This social masking can make it harder to identify their difficulties in social interactions. For instance, a girl on the spectrum may observe her peers discussing fashion and celebrities, prompting her to read fashion magazines and watch popular TV shows to keep up with conversations. While she may appear to blend in with her peers, this behavior can be exhausting, leading to anxiety and burnout.

Intense Interests

Girls with ASD often develop intense and narrow interests, similar to their male counterparts. However, these interests may align more closely with socially acceptable or typical girl interests, such as music, art, or literature. For example, a girl with ASD may display an intense interest in Barbie dolls. She might spend hours reading books and articles about Barbie, watching shows, and collecting the dolls. Her bedroom may be filled with Barbie dolls, and she can easily name each one of them.

Empathy

Girls with ASD may exhibit a strong desire to connect with others and demonstrate a higher level of empathy. They may mimic or imitate the social behavior of their peers to compensate for their own social challenges. For instance, if a girl on the spectrum notices someone crying, she may show a deep sense of concern by silently offering her presence and support. It is crucial to acknowledge and appreciate the unique ways in which individuals with ASD, including girls, express empathy, as their expressions may differ from neurotypical individuals.

Language and Communication Skills

Compared to boys with ASD, girls with ASD may have better-developed language and communication skills. However, they may still struggle with pragmatic language and understanding social cues. A girl on the spectrum may demonstrate advanced language abilities in structured settings like therapy sessions or classrooms. However, in unstructured social situations, she may experience difficulties initiating and maintaining conversations or interpreting nonverbal cues from others.

Sensory Sensitivities

Similar to boys with ASD, girls with ASD may also experience sensory sensitivities. However, their preferences or sensitivities may differ. For instance, a girl on the spectrum may be overly sensitive to certain textures, sounds, or smells. Noisy environments like crowded classrooms or busy shopping malls can quickly overwhelm and cause anxiety for her. Even moderate levels of noise can feel unbearable, leading to sensory overload. She may cover her ears, cry, or seek a quiet space to retreat from the overwhelming sensory input. Additionally, she may have sensitivities to strong odors, perfumes, or cleaning products.

Rigid Thinking and Anxiety

Girls with ASD often exhibit high levels of anxiety and may struggle with changes in routines. They may develop specific rituals and adhere strictly to routines. For example, a girl on the spectrum may express a strong need for routine and predictability in her daily life. Any deviation from her established routines can cause significant distress and lead to rigid thinking patterns. If her morning routine is disrupted due to a change in the schedule or an unexpected event, she may become overwhelmed and find it challenging to transition to the new situation. She may have difficulty considering alternative perspectives or approaches.

Socialization

While girls with ASD may find it challenging to engage in large group settings, they may feel more comfortable socializing in smaller, one-on-one, or small group interactions. For instance, a girl on the spectrum may struggle to participate in group activities or initiate conversations with her classmates. She often feels like an outsider and experiences difficulty joining ongoing conversations. Her attempts to participate may sometimes be met with confusion or indifference from her peers, further reinforcing her feelings of social isolation.

Late Diagnosis

Due to their ability to camouflage and mimic social behavior, girls with ASD often receive their diagnosis later than boys. This delay in diagnosis can result in challenges in receiving appropriate support and interventions. Various factors contribute to this delay, including camouflaging, social expectations, gender stereotypes, diagnostic criteria bias, and co-occurring conditions. It is crucial to address these barriers and ensure timely identification and support for girls with ASD.

Conclusion

It is important to recognize that the signs and characteristics mentioned in this article are generalizations, and not all girls with ASD will exhibit the same traits. ASD is a spectrum disorder, and individuals may have a wide range of strengths and challenges. By understanding and identifying the unique characteristics of ASD in girls, we can promote earlier diagnosis, provide tailored support, and create an inclusive environment that nurtures their individual strengths and abilities.

Also read: How do Mental Disorders Spread?

About Olga Sirbu

My name is Olga Sirbu, I am a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) and Licensed Applied Behavioral Analyst. My goal is to support and empower families and individuals on the autism spectrum.

Autism Advance is dedicated to training parents and caregivers, providing practical tips, and teaching individuals how to educate kids with autism.

I share evidence-based practices to help you better understand and support individuals with autism. Learn practical strategies to help individuals with autism reach their full potential, as well as gain a deeper understanding and acceptance of autism.

Thank you for considering Autism Advance as a resource for your autism journey.

 

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