The Autism Society Event and Education Recordings Archive

Women often present the cognitive processing differences inherent in autism spectrum disorder (ASD) differently than their male counterparts. This is especially true regarding social and personal relationships. This presentation provides both professional understanding and personal insights into the world of friends, sex and love for women with ASD. Delivered from the viewpoint of a woman on the autism spectrum, this presentation brings together academic evidence, professional anecdotal observations and a personal perspective of women on the Autism Spectrum and relationships. This work forms part of the growing understanding that women on the Autism Spectrum may present the elements of the diagnostic criteria differently and therefore often be missed for diagnosis or mis-diagnosed. Girls on the Autism Spectrum have been considered to be ‘Little Psychologists’, as opposed to the ‘Little Professors’ tag applied to boys. This manifests in a life-long ‘study’ of people, rather than facts, and results in an often astounding ability to mask considerable autistic processing gaps through mechanical learning of what is required. Due to the potential lack of acknowledgement, support and lack of any visible difficulties, it is suggested that women on the Autism Spectrum are particularly vulnerable to mental health issues and relationship difficulties. 

Many women on the Autism Spectrum are especially vulnerable and often dangerously pro-active when it comes to relationships. This presentation examines possible explanations with reference to the cognitive profile of Autism Spectrum Conditions and what can be done to provide support. Women on the autism spectrum also struggle to ‘fit’ in with their presumed natural peer group (women); a fact which will also be explained through examination of the cognitive profile of autism. These women often experience differences in their experience of sexuality and sexual identity, social requirements and pragmatic partner choices. All of these elements will be discussed illustrated by both professional and personal examples and anecdotes. In concluding, approaches and strategies for supporting and working with women on the Autism Spectrum will be outlined as well as thoughts for these women themselves.

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