Helping Children Meet Their Full Potential Faster
On the face of it, it seems that more boys than girls are diagnosed with ASD. The apparent assumption is that more boys are on the spectrum. It, however, may not be the truth. Many times, ASD in girls manifests itself differently from the recognized signs of ASD behavior, so a diagnosis doesn’t happen correctly.
Repetitive behavior like flapping is a sign that doctors look out for, and this may not be the case with girls. Plus, they could be quieter by nature. Girls on the spectrum may better manage their behavior in public places. They could have learned to smile or make eye contact at a young age. Making friends could be of more interest to them than to boys. It is known as “masking” and may point to a refined version of ASD that medical professionals overlook. Girls often get diagnosed with ADHD instead, as ASD and ADHD usually look similar on the surface. It is, however, to be noted that girls with ASD can hyper-focus on a particular issue and not be as active in school as they should be. Medical professionals need to focus on this aspect during screening & diagnosis.
Without an early diagnosis, girls miss out on holistic professional support that can assist in comprehending their issues, build skills, and enable them to thrive in life. Exhaustion from trying hard to fit in or being socially harassed as they overlook social cues can occur. The result could be depression, anxiety, or even low self-esteem. It is, therefore, essential that a thorough screening followed by diagnosis is critical to ensure that the girls are given a fair chance at life.
At Caliber Autism, we understand the unique challenges in diagnosing ASD in girls. Our comprehensive screenings are designed to identify subtle, overlooked signs, ensuring a timely and accurate diagnosis. If you suspect your child may be on the spectrum, reach out to us for expert autism testing and tailored support to help them thrive. Please contact us today to schedule an evaluation and get the resources your family needs.
Take the first step toward transformative progress for your child.
