The Masking Phenomenon
A key reason women are often underdiagnosed is a phenomenon known as masking or camouflaging. This involves consciously or unconsciously hiding autistic traits to fit in and avoid social stigma. Women and girls are often socialized to be more agreeable and accommodating, which can make them particularly adept at masking. This can include:
- Mimicking social behaviors and expressions from others.
- Forcing themselves to make eye contact even when it’s uncomfortable.
- Rehearsing conversations or social scripts beforehand.
- Suppressing stimming (self-stimulatory behaviors like hand-flapping or rocking).
This constant effort to mask can be incredibly exhausting and may lead to burnout, anxiety, and depression.
Social and Communication Differences
While traditional views of autism focus on a lack of social interest, autistic women may have a strong desire for friendships but struggle with the “unwritten rules” of social interaction. This can lead to:
- Difficulty with small talk or initiating conversations.
- Struggling to maintain friendships because of misunderstandings.
- Preferring one-on-one interactions over group settings.
- Intense interests that they may discuss at length, which can sometimes overwhelm others.
Sensory Sensitivities and Special Interests
Like all autistic individuals, women may experience sensory sensitivities to light, sound, touch, or taste. However, these can manifest differently:
- Auditory sensitivity may lead them to avoid noisy places like restaurants or concerts.
- Tactile sensitivity can make certain fabrics or clothing feel unbearable.
Additionally, autistic women often develop intense, special interests, but these interests may be in areas traditionally considered “feminine,” such as:
- Fictional characters or fandoms.
- Animals or nature.
- Creative pursuits like art, writing, or music.
These interests are not just hobbies; they provide comfort, a sense of purpose, and a way to de-stress.
Internalised Symptoms
Many of the symptoms in autistic women are internalized, meaning they are experienced within the person rather than being outwardly visible. This can include:
- Intense anxiety and a constant feeling of being “on edge.”
- Perfectionism and a fear of making mistakes.
- Overthinking social situations and replaying conversations.
- Depression, often linked to the exhaustion of masking and feeling misunderstood.
If you or someone you know identifies with these experiences, it might be worth exploring an autism assessment. An accurate diagnosis can provide a sense of validation and access to strategies that can significantly improve quality of life.