Currently, the medical community has accepted that Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is more common in males than in females, with 3 cases of autism in males for every 4 cases overall. However, research and experiences in therapy and laboratory settings suggest that this may not be entirely accurate. Diagnosing autism in girls and women may be more complicated.

Are the symptoms of autism different in men and women?

Although the symptoms of autism in women are not very different from those in men, the most recent research indicates that some manifest differently in them, especially in:

• Social difficulties and problems interacting
• Lower adaptability
• Less tendency to focus too much on one topic or activity
• More pronounced emotional problems
• More evident cognitive and language difficulties
• Problematic and aggressive behaviors

Diagnosing autism in women is no different from diagnosing it in men, and the severity of symptoms will depend on the level of the disorder and will vary in each individual case. Diagnosing autism at the higher-functioning end of the spectrum is very complex, and researchers believe that women and girls are more likely to mask their symptoms with the following behaviors:

• Force yourself to make eye contact with interlocutors
• To make jokes or comments that have been previously thought out for use in a conversation
• Imitating the social behavior of others (laughter and gestures)

The medical community continues to study autism, with constant progress in the comprehensive understanding of this condition. Even so, more data and research are needed to answer specific questions. How autism affects women and the best way to support those with it are constantly evolving topics, without definitive answers.

Early diagnosis

In another article we have written about the early diagnosis of autism and the impact it may or may not have on people's quality of life. 

The results of several studies published in the journal Autism revealed no statistically significant relationship between age at diagnosis and different aspects of quality of life, once external factors were taken into account. However, it was found that autistic women diagnosed early reported a better quality of life than autistic men, and those with additional mental health conditions had a lower quality of life, suggesting that this disorder likely manifests differently in men and women.

Self-awareness of autism and parental support can make all the difference in the successful integration and full development of the potential of children with autism. In the case of girls, understanding and supporting autism often translates into a more fulfilling life later in life.

TOi Robot for autism

The TOi Robot's design allows for positive, dynamic, and structured interaction, ideal for children with autism. Its adjustable modes, selectable by the therapist, allow for customized sessions tailored to each child's needs. Its wireless tools, such as the Sensy Magic Cube and Rocker, detect movements and interactions in real time, facilitating a smooth therapy experience.

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TOi Robot is, without a doubt, one of the most revolutionary tools in the treatment of autism in children. If you are a therapist and would like more information about the TOi Robot for autism, you can find more details here.