Barriers to Autism Spectrum Disorder Diagnosis for Young Women and Girls: a Systematic Review
Georgia Lockwood Estrin, Victoria Milner, Debbie Spain, Francesca Happé, Emma Colvert
Abstract
There is increased recognition that women and girls with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are underserved by the clinical criteria and processes required to receive a diagnosis. This mixed-methods systematic review aimed to identify key barriers to obtaining an ASD diagnosis in girls and young women under 21 years. Six themes were identified that focused on perceived gendered symptoms, namely behavioural problems, social and communication abilities, language, relationships, additional diagnoses/difficulties and restricted and repetitive behaviours and interests. Five themes were identified as (parental) perceived barriers to diagnosis, namely compensatory behaviours, parental concerns, others' perceptions, lack of information/resources and clinician bias. This review highlights the importance of enhancing widespread understanding and recognition of ASD presentation in females across development. PROSPERO Centre for Reviews and Dissemination (ID 2018 CRD42018087235). SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The online version of this article (10.1007/s40489-020-00225-8) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.