Autism and Trauma: prevalence, core features and recommendations
Duration: 21 mins
DOI: 10.13056/acamh.13636
Description
In this talk, Clare Harrop explores the lesser-known aspects of autism, with a specific focus on understanding the female autism phenotype. She addresses how historically, autism has been predominantly studied and understood through a male lens, leading to a lack of knowledge about the unique experiences and challenges faced by autistic females. Harrop highlights recent research emphasizing the importance of exploring gender differences in autism to bridge the gap in diagnosis and provide appropriate support. She discusses how societal norms and gendered expectations contribute to the underdiagnosis and delayed recognition of autism in females, often leading to the masking of autistic traits. By recognizing and understanding the nuances between males and females on the autism spectrum, Harrop suggests that we can better identify and address the specific needs of autistic females. She emphasizes the importance of considering the female autism phenotype in research and clinical practice, including studying the developmental trajectories and key life transitions of autistic females, and identifying supportive interventions. As the gender ratio in autism narrows, Harrop underscores the growing need to unravel the complexities of the female autism phenotype, improve diagnosis rates, enhance support systems, and ensure autistic females have the resources needed to thrive.
Learning Objectives
A. To understand female autism phenotype and its significance in the field of autism research and clinical practice
B. To recognise the impact of gendered expectations and societal norms on the underdiagnosis and delayed recognition of autism in females
C. To gain knowledge about the nuanced and subtle differences between males and females on the autism spectrum, and how these differences may contribute to delayed or underdiagnosis in females
