29 January 2024 | Sara Cruz, Sabela Conde-Pumpido Zubizarreta, Ana Daniela Costa, Rita Araújo, Júlia Martinho, María Tubio-Fungueirinho, Adriana Sampaio, Raquel Cruz, Angel Carracedo, Montse Fernández-Prieto
This study examines gender differences in autism diagnosis and the role of *camouflaging* in these differences. The first study, a systematic review and meta-analysis, found that autistic males exhibit more severe symptoms and social interaction difficulties compared to females, while females show more cognitive and behavioural difficulties. The second study, also a systematic review and meta-analysis, revealed that females use more compensation and masking camouflage strategies than males. These findings support the hypothesis of a bias in clinical procedures towards males and highlight the importance of considering a 'female autism phenotype' involving *camouflaging* in the diagnostic process. The results suggest that current diagnostic criteria may not accurately capture the unique expression of autism in females, leading to underdiagnosis or misdiagnosis. The study emphasizes the need for improved understanding and recognition of female autism to address the gender imbalance in autism diagnosis.This study examines gender differences in autism diagnosis and the role of *camouflaging* in these differences. The first study, a systematic review and meta-analysis, found that autistic males exhibit more severe symptoms and social interaction difficulties compared to females, while females show more cognitive and behavioural difficulties. The second study, also a systematic review and meta-analysis, revealed that females use more compensation and masking camouflage strategies than males. These findings support the hypothesis of a bias in clinical procedures towards males and highlight the importance of considering a 'female autism phenotype' involving *camouflaging* in the diagnostic process. The results suggest that current diagnostic criteria may not accurately capture the unique expression of autism in females, leading to underdiagnosis or misdiagnosis. The study emphasizes the need for improved understanding and recognition of female autism to address the gender imbalance in autism diagnosis.