Importance of Recognizing Autism in Girls: One Teen's Journey to Diagnosis and Acceptance

When 16-year-old Cosi was in sixth grade, she was facing difficulties in school and struggling with anxiety. Neither she nor her mother Lisa knew the reason behind her struggles. "It can be really hard to go through these struggles that make you different from a lot of other people without a reason," Cosi expressed to CBS News. 

Delayed Diagnosis

After three years of uncertainty, Cosi was eventually diagnosed with autism, a developmental disorder that can impact social skills, communication, and behavior. "It really happened after three years or so of trying to figure out why some things in school were hard for her, why she was struggling," her mother mentioned. Autism is often overlooked in young girls and can even be misdiagnosed, according to Dr. Cynthia Martin, senior director of the Autism Center at the Child Mind Institute.

Challenges in Diagnosis

Dr. Martin highlighted that autism in girls is frequently missed and can be misdiagnosed as anxiety or depression, leading to the actual condition being overlooked. Girls may not always fit the traditional criteria for autism and are often better at masking symptoms by imitating their friends' behaviors. However, an accurate diagnosis can be life-changing, allowing girls to better understand themselves and navigate the world while advocating for their needs.

Importance of Recognition

While autism is commonly believed to be more prevalent in boys, it is crucial for parents and clinicians to pay attention to the signs in girls. Experts suggest that if a child struggles to comprehend social rules or experiences difficulty in managing conflicts with friends, an autism evaluation should be considered. Missing a diagnosis could prevent a young person from receiving necessary support or lead to the development of additional behavioral issues.