Autism? Autism Spectrum? How about ASD? The words of old say the same thing. The trick is to identify women with Autism.

Girls are less often identified. Their symptoms are often masked or camouflaged. Many don’t know they’re autistic until adulthood. As a result, women are less likely to receive support. This trend has to stop. Self-knowledge is key.

Boys are four times more likely to be diagnosed with Autism than girls. Their symptoms are more visible. Girls are more likely to internalize symptoms (mood and personality issues).

What Does it Look Like in Women?

ASD is a group of developmental disabilities. It is a broad range of conditions. Autism impacts the nervous system and medical diagnosis including lab tests or imaging. Social interaction is also a marker of symptoms. 

The question? Can it be a minor problem? Many contend that there are specialties. Others see how difficulties in what people see and diagnose. 

• Think
• Feel
• Gestures
• Touch
• Facial expressions

Women with Autism tend to have overt symptoms. They tend to be subtle too. It is common for them to withdraw in a variety of situations. In contrast, men tend to be more aggressive. Their dynamic behavior tends to stand out. In contrast, women do not.

Familiarity with adulthood symptoms is helpful in diagnosing ASD in women. Seeking help from primary care physicians (PCPs), psychologists, and psychiatrists with experience in Autism disorders is important in getting a firm diagnosis. Seek personal introspection to get in touch with how you interact with the world and others. Seek input from close family members ad friends who know you well. They can provide insight into signs from childhood.

Social Coping

Research in Autism Spectrum Disorder shows differences in female symptoms and behavior. Consider passivity to understand communication. Advocates encourage them to “look behind the mask.” Think about how you really feel inside, not just what you want to portray to the world.

Empower

• Wear makeup to express your inner beauty.
• Support social pressures by interacting with a few close friends.
• Encourage daily competitive activities that you enjoy.
• Support regular self-care by focusing on how you feel inside.
• Wear clothes with accessories that show your individuality.

Nurture

• Look out for repetitive behaviors.
• Reduce/substitute negative interactions with people who do not make you feel good about yourself.
• Address desires or needs collectively by seeking support from others.
• Proceed with action and contemplation (feelings). Go with your gut.
• Limit socially inappropriate tasks. Monitor how others react to your behavior.

Communication

• Seek support from immediate and extended family.
• Encourage interaction with peers and social/support groups.
• Establish rules for teachers and advocates at school and work.
• Discuss the importance of law enforcement and social authorities.
• Improve work performance with employers and colleagues.

Women on the Autistic Spectrum have lives all their own. They’re often described as quiet and shy. They have difficulty making and keeping friends. As a result of their inability to control their feelings, they have real challenges. Surprisingly, they rely on others for interaction (often peers). It’s a real quandary.

Question: How do you think that women with Autism are different?

Copyright © 2023 by Edna M. Brown. All Rights Reserved.