Girls and Asperger Syndrome

Although distinct differences exist in the skills of typical boys and girls in the area of cognition, communication and social skills, gender has been largely ignored in the field of autism spectrum disorders (ASD). Research notes that girls with Asperger Syndrome (AS), along with those who have other ASDs, have been under-diagnosed because of unique gender-based characteristics.

Are We Missing Girls with AS?

Even though a male dominant prevalence is not unusual for individuals with developmental or other disabilities (e.g., ADHD, learning disabilities, or emotional/ behavioral disorders), studies have shown that the number of males is especially prevalent in the area of ASD, including AS. Generally, the male-to-female ratio is suspected to be 4:1, similar to the ratio of other ASDs. However, some researchers suggest that the more accurate male-to-female AS ratio is much higher, at 2.5:1 (Attwood, 2007; Hill, 2009; Gillberg, 2005).

Many parents and professionals clam that girls with AS are under-identified because they exhibit different characteristics than boys. In addition, many educators pay more attention to boys, who generally show more externalizing behaviors, such as aggression, hyperactivity and conduct problems, compared with girls in classrooms (Ernsperger & Wendel, 2007).

Getting a diagnosis can be often the first hurdle in obtaining help for girls with AS and their families. As a result, late diagnosis of AS for girls decreases the chance for early intervention, which is a critical factor for better outcomes.

Understanding Gender Differences

The reasons for under-identification of girls with AS can vary. One of the possible reasons is related to gender-based characteristics. Many researchers and parents have noted that girls with AS are more likely to be ignored in the process of identification because of different social expectations, socialization or social development patterns for girls. Generally, girls with AS are assumed to show more problems in internalizing behavior (e.g., depression or anxiety) rather than externalizing behavior (e.g., aggression or hyperactivity).

It is very difficult to understand the profiles of girls with AS since most studies include few girls with AS and often do not even report separate scores for each gender. However, recent studies about gender differences found that girls with ASD have lower scores in both cognitive and adaptive functioning compared to boys with ASD (Lee, 2008). This suggests that girls who show severe problems are more likely to be diagnosed, and girls with AS who have higher functioning have been under-diagnosed. Therefore, some researchers also suggest that we should develop and use gender-specific norms to diagnose AS and other ASDs. The under-identification of girls with AS shows the need to understand gender-based characteristics in terms of better identification and support.

What Do We Know About Girls with AS?

Although more research is needed to determine the differences of gender-based characteristics, girls with AS tend to be internalized and are better able to imitate others’ social behaviors. In addition, girls with AS show their feelings of caring for others and tend to be more social than boys with AS. Girls’ good communication skills are also noted, and those skills often disguise the symptoms of AS, such as difficulties in understanding the social environment.