Autism in females: what we know and where do we go?

Duration: 10 mins DOI: 10.13056/acamh.13634

Description

In this talk, Clare Harrop discusses the disparities in autism diagnosis, highlighting how autism has historically been predominantly diagnosed in males, leading to females with autism being overlooked and underserved. She explores various factors contributing to delays or misdiagnoses in females, and the distinct phenotypical variations associated with each sex. Harrop points out that research reveals girls often achieve language milestones earlier than boys, exhibit more intricate behaviours, and can display significant diversity in the frequency and nature of repetitive and restrictive behaviours. Despite advancements in autism research, she acknowledges that there is still a wealth of knowledge to uncover. Harrop concludes her presentation by emphasizing critical avenues for future studies, including the consideration of sex and gender differences, the expansion of longitudinal research, and other promising areas of investigation.

Learning Objectives

A. To understand the historical gender disparities in autism diagnosis
B. To identify factors contributing to delayed or misdiagnosis in females
C. To recognise phenotypical differences according to sex