Autism is a neurodevelopmental condition, meaning that autistic people’s brains develop and function differently to the general population.
Characteristics of autism include:
- Communication differences
- Sensory sensitivity or processing difficulties
- Differences relating to others
- Differences understanding feelings and emotions
- Restricted or repetitive behaviours
- Need for routine
- Preference for routines and having particular ways of doing things
- Particular interests or passions for particular topics or
activities
Autistic girls
Autistic individuals are unique in how they present and no two learners are the same. However, research does indicate that girls may present differently from boys. These different traits/behaviours may include:
- Greater interest in social relations
- Better at demonstrating complex emotions
- Increased flexibility in their interests and behaviours
- Special interests that more closely align with ‘mainstream’ interests of girls (e.g. animals, celebrities or literature); the difference might be the intensity of their interest (e.g. very interested in only one celebrity)
- Less likely to show externalising behaviours (impulsivity or hyperactivity), and may be more likely to internalise (anxiety or depression)
- Behaviours might also resemble typical gender differences, but are exaggerated
It is not always as easy to spot the signs of autism in girls
Differences may go unnoticed in school but could display as anxious, distressed, or unsettled behaviour at home. In school, autistic girls might blend into friend groups, making it less obvious to teachers, or they may appear sociable because they are masking their autistic traits. Academic success can also hide difficulties they face in other areas.
Due to possible differences in presentation across contexts (home and school), it is important to work closely with the entire team around the child to gain a holistic assessment picture of the young person’s needs. If there are concerns that a female pupil you support may be autistic, please see the Neurodevelopmental Tile on the Fife Intranet Page. It is important to remember that support in education is needs-led and does not require a diagnosis.
Remember that all of us are unique and, particularly during teenage years, many young people experience feelings of social differences and periods of anxious thinking. This can be typical teenage development; however, it is worth discussing the wider picture of needs.
