Understanding the Societal, Disciplinary, and Phenotypic Factors Contributing to Hindered Diagnosis of Autism in Women

Abstract

This systematic literature review investigates the possible factors contributing to the underdiagnosis of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in women, focusing on three key areas:  social masking, gender bias in ASD screening tools, and the unique female phenotype of ASD.  By analyzing existing literature from the James E. Walker Library JEWL Search provided by Middle Tennessee State University, I researched how social masking allows women to hide their symptoms, leading to misdiagnosis or late diagnosis.  Additionally, I explored how traditional screening tools may be biased toward male presentations of ASD, further complicating accurate diagnosis.  The last analyzed topic regards how a possibly unknown and under researched presentation of ASD in females could affect diagnostic probabilities.  In summary, research highlights the urgent need for more research on the misrepresentation of ASD diagnosis in women.  Though findings were limited and inconsistent, understanding these challenges is crucial for developing effective diagnostic criteria and intervention strategies that carefully consider the distinct presentations of autism in females, promoting improved mental health support and outcomes.