A large international study suggests that autism in toddlers may appear almost identically in girls and boys. Published in Nature Human Behaviour and summarized by Science News, the findings challenge long-held assumptions and could lead to more inclusive, earlier interventions for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
The research addresses a key concern: gender-based disparities in diagnosis. Historically, ASD has been diagnosed more often in boys, with global estimates indicating about four boys for every girl. Critics argued that diagnostic criteria, often developed around male presentations, might underdetect autism in girls. The current study counters this by showing near-identical patterns across 18 measures—eye-tracking attention, language development, and basic self-care skills—among 2,618 children aged 1 to 4 years. The lead author, a neuroscientist and co-director of UC San Diego’s Autism Center of Excellence, noted the surprise at how little difference emerged across the assessments.
Clinicians could soon adjust their approach to early diagnosis. If autism symptoms look similar in toddlers of all genders, the emphasis shifts from gender stereotypes to vigilant, universal screening. A small exception emerged: parents of girls reported slightly higher performance in daily living skills, though experts say the difference is too small to matter clinically and may reflect normal gender variation that also appears in non-autistic children.
Beyond autism-specific findings, the study compared typical development and confirmed that girls generally show modest advantages on certain social and developmental indices in early childhood. Among children with ASD, these advantages were not evident, reinforcing the need for universal vigilance in early years. The principal investigator underscored that very young children with autism do not necessarily present with gender-differentiated diagnostic features.
The implications extend to Thailand, where awareness around autism is growing but late or missed diagnoses persist, particularly for girls. Thailand’s public health system has integrated ASD screening into routine pediatric check-ups and runs awareness campaigns, yet stigma and misconceptions still hinder timely identification. The new findings suggest that relying on gendered expectations about autism traits can miss children who would benefit from early support.
Experts emphasize cautious interpretation. Some screening methods may overlook milder cases, especially in girls, meaning the study could reflect existing diagnoses rather than a complete picture of how autism manifests across the spectrum. Thai health authorities may consider more sensitive screening tools to capture subtle signs in all children.
Cultural norms in Thailand can also mask autism traits in girls, who may be socialized to be quiet or compliant. In some communities, autistic behaviors are attributed to shyness rather than developmental concerns, delaying assessment and intervention. This underscores the importance of training for teachers, caregivers, and healthcare professionals to recognize autism signs across genders and to provide timely support.
Researchers plan to follow the cohort as they age to determine if gender differences emerge later in childhood. If confirmed, findings could influence educational accommodations, social support programs, and health policy in Thailand and beyond, advancing equity in diagnosis and services for all children with ASD.
For Thai families, educators, and clinicians, the takeaway is clear: watch for early indicators—delayed speech, reduced eye contact, repetitive behaviors, or limited play interactions—in all children, regardless of gender. Early evaluation and, when needed, intervention remain the most effective strategies to improve outcomes.
Educators are urged to adopt inclusive, flexible classroom practices and individualized learning plans. Visual supports, predictable routines, and positive behavioral strategies can help children with diverse social and learning needs. Ongoing professional development in neurodiversity remains essential for reducing stigma and improving identification in schools nationwide.
Community action also matters. Supporting local autism resource networks and participating in public awareness efforts can help families seek timely assessments. Thailand’s growing network of support centers and therapists is increasing access to early interventions beyond major urban areas.
In summary, this study reinforces that, at least in the early years, autism may not be gender-specific. For Thai audiences, the message is to move past stereotypes, remain attentive to all children’s development, and advocate for early, equitable support—regardless of gender. By embracing inclusive screening and strong family–caregiver–professional collaboration, Thailand can better ensure no child with autism is overlooked.
Note on sources: Research and reporting are drawn from a combination of Nature Human Behaviour and independent science coverage, with context and local implications integrated from Thailand’s public health updates and pediatric education initiatives.