Currently, four times more boys than girls receive an autism diagnosis
Sydney, Australia: A significant research initiative led by the Aspect Research Centre for Autism Practice (ARCAP) is set to explore the gender-related discrepancies in autism diagnoses among Australian adolescents and young adults.
The study addresses an urgent need for insight as boys are currently diagnosed on the autism spectrum four times more frequently than girls, who are often also diagnosed much later in life.
Dr Vicki Gibbs, Head of Research at ARCAP, emphasises the importance of examining early childhood development to help understand these disparities.
"There is a pressing need to delve into the formative years of children to learn more about the gender variances in autism diagnoses," said Dr Gibbs. “Early diagnosis is critical as delayed recognition can significantly affect the well-being and support received by Autistic girls."
This pioneering research aims to explore how autism may manifest differently in boys and girls during their early years how this might influence parents and caregivers’ experiences of accessing an autism diagnosis for their child.
"We want to understand whether underlying gender differences contribute to delayed or missed diagnoses in girls. Our goal is to inform and improve clinical assessment strategies and promote timely diagnostic support," Dr Gibbs added.
Participants in this study will be parents and caregivers of Autistic adolescents and young adults who were diagnosed at or after 12 years of age. They will provide insights through an online survey about their child's early development and their diagnostic journey. Those whose children were assigned female at birth are also invited to participate in a follow-up interview to gather more nuanced information.
Dr Gibbs also highlighted the broader impacts and benefits of the study. "By understanding the early experiences and challenges faced by these families, we aim to empower and educate others to seek early assessment and
pursue the necessary support promptly. Our findings will be shared extensively within the autism, clinical, and research communities to enhance awareness, inform diagnostic processes, and foster a more inclusive understanding of autism."
Call to Action: If you are the parent of an autistic young person aged between 12 and 25 who received an autism diagnosis at age 12 or older and you live in Australia, your participation in this study is invaluable. Share your experiences to inform diagnostic processes criteria and enhance support services for all children. Complete the online survey:
www.tinyurl.com/arcapgender
For more information:
Karen Keech, karen@establishedpr.com.au 0411 052 408
About Aspect and ARCAP
Autism Spectrum Australia (Aspect) is Australia’s largest autism-specific service provider, with one of the world’s biggest autism-specific schools programs. A not-for-profit organisation, we work in partnership with people of all ages on the autism spectrum and their families to deliver distinct services, practices and research that recognise a different brilliant® - understanding, engaging and celebrating the strengths and interests of people on the autism spectrum.
The Aspect Research Centre for Autism Practice (ARCAP) the research arm of Aspect. We conduct participatory research that is translated into respectful, proven practices to positively impact the lives of autistic people, their families and carers.
