While boys are often more open about their autism, girls tend to conceal the symptoms more easily. Girls often attempt to camouflage their deficits, including stimming, avoiding social situations, and withdrawing when they are unsure of what to say. They can also compensate by copying the behaviour of popular peers. Although this camouflage behavior may be difficult to spot, it is something parents should be aware of and watch for.
Researchers began studying autism in girls when they heard about how different girls were from boys. They conducted two studies in Australia, surveying mothers, fathers, and caregivers of children with autism. The findings of these studies were quite surprising: girls had lower rates of some symptoms and higher rates of others. Interestingly, the findings indicate that girls are often misdiagnosed and delayed in receiving treatment. For this reason, they may not get the early intervention they need to avoid the consequences of autism.
The prevalence of autism in boys is four to five times higher than in girls. Though the gender gap is large, it may not be as wide as it appears. One reason for this may be the way girls are socially and less likely to display obvious signs of autism. Girls are often better at hiding their symptoms, blending in and learning social norms. However, there are certain signs that parents should watch for, and knowing these symptoms may help them get a better understanding of the disorder.
While it is not entirely clear whether or not autism in girls is more common in girls than in boys, it is clear that the differences are there. Girls have lower IQs than boys, and are less likely to engage in activities that are considered stereotypically male. For example, Frances Pelphrey was obsessed with American Girl dolls, which may seem normal. However, in some cases, girls do play with objects in a way that camouflages autism symptoms.
While boys show more signs of autism than girls, it may be difficult for doctors to notice these differences. One of the biggest problems with diagnosing autism in girls is that they are often more subtle than boys. As a result, doctors may misdiagnose the problem or even prescribe ADHD. Fortunately, there are some simple ways to spot autism in girls and ensure that your daughter has the best possible chance of receiving the correct treatment. So, if you notice any of these signs, don’t wait any longer.
Another sign of autism in girls is an obsession with toys. Unlike boys, girls are also more likely to form attachments with everyday objects, like their favorite doll. While many girls form attachments to toys, these are not necessarily indicative of a child with autism. Look for subtle differences between these types of behaviors and those that are consistent with obsessive behavior. For more information, visit the following links:
The main signs of autism are different from boys. Girls may display more or less severe symptoms. The symptoms can also change over time. Symptoms can be easier to recognize in boys, but are not as common in girls. Women with average intelligence may be asymptomatic of autism or not. So, it is important to seek proper diagnosis in order to ensure your child’s mental health. A thorough evaluation will ensure that your daughter has a full understanding of their developmental milestones.