What Is Autism? Early Signs and What It Looks Like in Girls – University of Rochester Medical Center

Autism affects how a person communicates, interacts socially, and experiences the world around them. While autism has historically been diagnosed more often in boys, growing awareness and research are helping clinicians and the public better understand the unique ways that autism can appear in girls.
Autism is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects social communication and behavior. Autism can present in many different ways and with varying levels of support needs.
For many years, autism was largely understood through the lens of boys, leaving girls’ experiences less visible. As a result, girls whose traits appeared differently were often overlooked or diagnosed later.
In recent years, however, awareness of how autism presents in girls has grown significantly.
Masking, or social camouflaging, happens when autistic people consciously or unconsciously hide traits associated with autism to fit in socially.
This can include:
“Autistic girls are more likely to engage in masking,” says Suzannah Iadarola, PhD, Director of the Strong Center for Developmental Disabilities at the University of Rochester Medical Center. “They tend to have a stronger desire to fit in with their same-age peers and are more intentional about mimicking social behaviors.”
Research suggests that autistic girls can appear socially engaged even when their interactions aren’t fully reciprocal or meaningful. They may seem part of a group while still feeling disconnected. In contrast, boys may show more obvious signs of reduced social engagement.
Intense or highly focused interests are another common feature of autism, though they may look different in boys and girls.
Boys are more likely to develop interests that stand out socially or seem unusual for their age. Because these interests are more noticeable, they may be more easily recognized as a potential sign of autism.
Girls, however, may develop strong interests in topics that are also popular among their peers, such as books, celebrities, animals, or hobbies. While the subject may appear typical, the intensity or focus can still be characteristic of autism. Because these interests align with those of peers, they may be easier to overlook.
More girls have been diagnosed with autism in recent years—not because autism is becoming more common in girls but because awareness and understanding are improving.
Together, growing awareness, research, and representation are helping more autistic girls —who might previously have been overlooked—receive the recognition, validation, and support they need.
The Levine Autism Clinic provides comprehensive and coordinated care to children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD).  Our team of experts monitors developmental progress, treats health problems associated with ASD, assesses and treats behavior problems, and ensures that families have needed resources and connection to community supports.
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