9 Autism Symptoms in Girls You Need to Recognize

we’re diving into nine crucial autism symptoms in girls that you need to be aware of. Understanding these symptoms can be key to diagnosing or supporting girls on the autism spectrum, so stick around until the end to get the complete picture.

Before we start, I’d love to hear from you in the comments! Whether you’re a parent trying to understand if your child might be on the spectrum, a friend, or someone on the spectrum yourself, drop a comment below. I read and respond to every single one, and I’m here to help start the conversation.

I’ve made previous videos on autism in females and masking, so if you want to explore those topics further, check out the playlist linked above and in the pinned comment below. Now, let’s jump into the nine specific autism symptoms in girls that you should know about.

1. Selective Mutism: This symptom is more common in autistic girls and can be quite puzzling. Selective mutism means a person may speak freely in certain situations or with familiar people but become completely silent in others, especially with new people or unfamiliar settings. It’s fascinating and important to recognize, as it can often be mistaken for shyness or social anxiety.

2. Masking: Many autistic girls are adept at masking, which involves putting on a façade to navigate social situations. This can make it harder to recognize autism because the symptoms are hidden behind a socially acceptable exterior. Masking can lead to exhaustion and difficulty in getting an accurate diagnosis, which is why it’s so crucial to be aware of this trait.

3. End-of-Day Meltdown: After a day of masking and social interaction, autistic girls might experience severe meltdowns once they’re home. This happens because they’ve been suppressing their true feelings and sensory overload throughout the day, leading to emotional release at home. Recognizing this pattern can be key to understanding their needs and providing the right support.

4. Obsessive Collection: Girls on the spectrum might engage in obsessive collection behaviors. They may gather and organize items related to their interests, like teddy bears, books, or small trinkets. This intense focus on collecting can be a sign of a special interest that is common among autistic individuals.

5. Issues with Friendships: Maintaining friendships can be challenging for autistic girls. They may struggle with relating to others or understanding social cues, making it difficult to form and keep close relationships. Support in these areas is crucial for helping them build meaningful connections.

6. Exhaustion and Fatigue: The constant effort of masking, dealing with sensory sensitivities, and managing social interactions can lead to significant fatigue. This is especially true for girls who have to navigate hormonal changes during adolescence. Recognizing this exhaustion is important for providing appropriate support and self-care strategies.

7. Difficulty with Eye Contact: Many autistic individuals, including girls, find eye contact challenging. This can affect their ability to engage in conversations and social interactions. Understanding this can help in creating more comfortable communication environments for them.

8. Extreme Shyness: Extreme shyness or being very quiet in new or overstimulating situations is another symptom. This can be a combination of selective mutism and a natural introverted personality, leading to a reserved demeanor in certain settings.

9. Sensory Sensitivities and Fussy Eating: Sensory processing issues can lead to picky eating behaviors. Girls on the spectrum might have strong reactions to specific textures, smells, or appearances of food, which can lead to meltdowns or shutdowns. Addressing these sensitivities is essential for managing their overall well-being.

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