The link between neurodiversity and gender

When it comes to exploring the intersectionality between neurodiversity and gender, there are several factors we can examine that may play a role in diagnosing neurodifferences.

Males are more likely to be diagnosed with neurodifferences than females, for example, the ratio is 4:1 for autism spectrum condition (ASC) and 3:1 for ADHD. However, research increasingly shows more equal distribution between the genders. So why might there be this disparity between diagnosis and prevalence?

At least part of the reason that females get diagnosed later, or not at all, seems to be that their neurodifferences are noticed less than in males. This may be for a number of reasons:

• Gendered social norms
• Females are more likely to ‘mask’ or ‘camouflage’ their neurodivergent traits
• Males more often ‘externalize’ their distress (e.g. via disruption in the classroom) whereas females ‘internalize’ it (e.g. become anxious)
• Neurodifferences may present differently in males and females. For example, females are more likely to have inattentive ADHD (e.g. daydreaming and being distractible) rather than the more disruptive (and noticeable) hyperactive/impulsive ADHD
• Lower professional awareness and understanding of female presentations and traits associated with neurodifferences

It's important to note that there may also be bias within diagnostic criteria and their interpretation. Historically, scientific studies have often been carried out on samples that contained mostly, or only males. Diagnostic criteria and other diagnostic instruments (e.g. questionnaires and checklists) were then created using this research.

As a result, girls and women may go undiagnosed, or may be misdiagnosed with mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety or personality disorders. Sadly, failure to identify neurodifferences in girls and women, or misdiagnosis, can lead to long-term cumulative adversity. It is therefore vital that we raise awareness of the intersections between gender and neurodiversity, challenge misconceptions, and recognise (as well as celebrate) the many amazing neurodivergent women and girls in our midst.

To learn more about neurodiversity, and how you can support your neurodivergent employees, get in touch with our team today here.

Written by Helen Musgrove, Director of Psychological Consulting at Lexxic