Autism In Females Is Often Hidden

The rates of autism are much higher in males. We don't know why but more recently we are learning that autism is more prevalent in females than we expected. This may be in part due to a phenomenon called masking. Females and girls are more likely to hide their autistic traits as there is more pressure on them to fit in socially. Autistic masking is different from socially trying to fit in because the effort to maintain the mask is extremely tiring and needs to be constantly maintained.

Masking may look like.

• Inhibiting natural movements and stimmimg activities

• Perfectionism

• Trying to please everyone

• Mimicing others gestures or social behaviour

• Forcing facial expressions and eye contact

It is a survival strategy because many autistic females learned early on that their natural behaviours were not acceptable and it may have even helped them escape punishment. So it served a purpose, but in the long run it takes it toll over time. This leads to constant anxiety, fatigue, depression and often burnout. Because of masking we are less likely to identify autism in females, that would lead to support in school, or work, increased independence and most importantly understanding their own authentic identity which has far reaching consequences.

The CAT-Q test is a self report that is being used to assess the extent of masking.

References:

https://doi.org/10.1007/s40489-020-00197-9

https://doi.org/10.1186/s13229-021-00421-1