Autism is a developmental disorder that affects children and often goes undetected in girls. While Autism is typically seen as a male disorder, girls are just as likely to have Autism as boys. Unfortunately, the symptoms of Autism in girls may be overlooked due to different presentations, causing them to be misdiagnosed or undiagnosed altogether. It’s important to understand how Autism is presented in females so that girls can get the help they need.
At Children’s Milestone, we are dedicated to providing families with ABA therapy and treatment for Autism, irrespective of gender. Our experienced therapists utilize multi-disciplinary approaches to diagnose and treat Autism in girls. We focus on reinforcing positive behavior while helping girls develop social and communication skills, improve academic performance, and grow in positive interactions with peers and adults. Read on to learn more and reach out to our team today with any questions you may have.
Autistic Girls Don’t Fit the “Model”
Autistic girls don’t always fit the model of what Autism is “supposed” to look like in boys. Boys are more likely to have language delays, repetitive behaviors, and difficulty making friends. Autistic girls, on the other hand, are more likely to be verbal, have an easier time making friends, and can often seem to be more socially adept.
Misdiagnosis of Autism in Girls
Misdiagnoses of Autism in girls can be common. Girls may be diagnosed with depression, anxiety, or ADHD instead of Autism. This is because girls can often be very good at hiding their difficulty with socializing and understanding nonverbal cues. Some common signs of Austim in girls are:
- Lack of or unusual interest in social interaction
- Restricted interests and repetitive behaviors
- Difficulty understanding nonverbal communication
- Different reactions to sensory stimuli
- Communication difficulties
- Difficulty with transitions
- Loss of previously acquired skills
- Unusual awareness of body movements
- Verbal outbursts and tantrums
- Anxiety
Girls Tend to Mask or Pass for A Bit
Girls may be more likely to mask their symptoms to present as more “neurotypical” to their peers. This involves, acting out traits that girls perceive as being more appealing to the majority and hiding their true feelings and struggles. Girls may also pass for a bit, feeling like they need to fit in with their peers to maintain relationships. This can lead to their Autism diagnosis being overlooked or pushed aside, as they put on a “mask” and appear to be socially competent.
The Cost of a Missed Diagnosis
A missed diagnosis can have a huge impact on a girl’s life. Not only can it lead to inappropriate treatment, but it can also lead to social isolation, academic difficulties, and mental health issues. Early diagnosis and intervention are key to helping Autistic girls reach their full potential.
Has Your Daughter Been Diagnosed With Autism? ABA Therapy Can Help
If your daughter has been diagnosed with Autism, Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy can be a great resource. ABA therapy is an evidence-based approach that uses positive reinforcement to teach social, communication, and academic skills. ABA therapy can help Autistic girls to better manage their behaviors and to interact more successfully with their peers.
Autism is a complex condition, and it affects different people in different ways. Autistic girls often don’t fit the traditional model of Autism, so they can be overlooked. It is important to be aware of the signs of Autism in girls so that they can get the help that they need. ABA therapy can be a great resource for girls with Autism, as it can help them to better manage their behaviors and to interact more successfully with their peers. At Children’s Milestone, we offer ABA therapy services in Maryland, Pennsylvania, Delaware, Virginia, and Washington D.C. If you have any questions about our services, please contact us today.