Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is diagnosed in boys far more often than in girls — roughly four times as frequently. At first glance, this might suggest that autism is simply more common in boys. But research is revealing a more complicated reality.
Girls with autism often don’t fit the “typical” mold. While boys may show clearer signs like repetitive behaviors or difficulties with social interaction, girls often present differently. They may be more socially aware, mimic others to fit in, or internalize their struggles. This can lead to their autism being overlooked or misdiagnosed — often as anxiety, depression, or ADHD.
In fact, many girls with autism don’t receive a diagnosis until adolescence or even adulthood.
Why the Gender Gap?
There are a few key reasons behind this difference:
- Biological Factors – Some studies suggest that boys may be more neurologically vulnerable to developing autism, while girls might need a higher “genetic load” to show signs.
- Social Conditioning – From an early age, girls are often taught to be social, cooperative, and emotionally expressive. These expectations can lead them to hide their struggles more effectively than boys.
- Diagnostic Bias – Most autism research and diagnostic criteria were originally based on how autism appears in boys. As a result, girls who don’t fit that pattern may go unnoticed.
While autism may be diagnosed more in boys, that doesn’t mean it’s less common in girls. Instead, many girls are slipping through the cracks due to subtle symptoms, societal expectations, and outdated diagnostic models.
The good news? Autism awareness is growing. More clinicians are recognizing the unique ways autism can present in girls, and more tools are being developed to catch these differences early.
By understanding how autism looks across the gender spectrum, we can ensure that all children — boys and girls alike — get the support they need to thrive.