Forget the stereotype of a child struggling to make friends. Autism is a lifelong journey, and countless adults navigate the world with this invisible companion. But for autistic women, the path can be particularly challenging.
Research reveals that women with autism appear more social than their male counterparts. They may have learned to “camouflage” their symptoms, mimicking social behaviors to fit in.
This masking comes at a cost. While it allows them to navigate social situations, it can hide the deeper struggles they face in connecting with others.
They may appear to cope well socially, but beneath the surface can lie difficulties with emotional expression and maintaining relationships.
Autistic females in this case can be compared to an actress whose performance is flawless, but behind the mask, she grapples with understanding social cues and maintaining relationships.
Therefore, recognizing these variations is crucial to ensure they receive the support they need to thrive.