Thanks to increased awareness and understanding, the number of men diagnosed with autism in the UK is on the rise. However, there are still many individuals who remain undiagnosed or don’t receive a diagnosis until later on in life. In this helpful guide, we’ll be discussing common signs of autism in men, exploring differences between male and female autism, and sharing advice around diagnosis and support.
Autism, also known as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) or Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC), is a neurodevelopmental condition that is believed to affect around 700,000 people in the UK. In the past, autism was split into different categories, such as Asperger’s syndrome and pervasive development disorder (PDD). However, these terms are now grouped under the broader diagnosis of ASD, which recognises the full spectrum of symptoms and experiences.
According to research, more men are diagnosed with autism than females. This is not necessarily because more men have autism, but potentially because men are less likely to mask symptoms and may display more obvious symptoms than women.
Since autism is relatively common, symptoms in undiagnosed individuals can sometimes be overlooked. This can have both positive and negative consequences.
For example, for someone with undiagnosed autism who displays traits that have been accepted as part of their personality, it can mean that their friends, family, and co-workers have accepted their behaviours as part of them and treat them no differently as a result.
On the other hand, without a formal diagnosis, that same person may, at times, face unfair judgement or find it harder to succeed in certain situations since they’re not formally recognised as having any neurological difference and won’t always get the support or understanding they need.
The following symptoms are commonly experienced by autistic males:
Remember: Since autism is a spectrum, symptoms can look different for each person. Some people may only experience a few symptoms mentioned here, while others may experience all of them. This applies to the severity of symptoms, too.
Many adult men describe autism as affecting several parts of daily life, but in different ways for each person. For example, one man might feel deeply comfortable talking about a special interest yet struggle with small talk, while another may notice that bright lights or noise leave him drained. It can help to think of autism as a spectrum: not every man will have all the same traits or to the same degree. Instead, common themes emerge around social interaction, sensory processing, routines, work life, and understanding emotions.
Men with autism often experience social situations differently. They may want friendship and connection but find the unwritten “rules” of conversation hard to follow. In fact, as one analysis notes, it’s “not the disinterest in social interactions” that sets autistic people apart, but rather that they “have a desire for friendship” that is “obstructed by the social and environmental challenges they face.” In practice, this can look like anxiety or exhaustion in new or group settings. Common signs include:
Difficulty with non-verbal cues. Many autistic men describe social interaction as puzzle-solving: it’s hard to tell what someone means by their tone of voice or body language. You might not pick up on someone’s frustrated expression, or you may miss sarcasm and take words very literally.
Struggles with small talk. Simple greetings or chit-chat (“How are you?”) can feel confusing or pointless. One writer explains that conversations based on personal interests or facts feel easy, whereas “social-based conversations can present more frustrations and challenges for us.” In other words, discussing a favourite hobby is far more comfortable than idle conversation about the weather.
Social anxiety and masking. Many men feel anxious or drained by socialising and may prefer to be alone. They might rehearse conversations or stick to familiar topics to cope. People may think they are shy or aloof, but it often comes from trying to make sense of social rules.
It’s very common for autistic men to react strongly to sensory input. In other words, sights, sounds, smells, touch or taste can feel intense. Almost 9 in 10 autistic people report some kind of sensory difference. For example:
Overwhelming noise or crowds. A busy office, a crowded restaurant or a noisy classroom can lead to sensory overload. Loud music at a party or sudden noises can cause physical discomfort or anxiety. Many men cope by wearing earplugs or stepping outside to escape.
Bright or flickering lights. Fluorescent lighting or harsh sunlight might feel blinding or even painful. One autistic writer says fluorescent office lighting at work is like staring directly into the sun. As a result, some autistic men might ask to wear sunglasses indoors or for softer lighting at work.
Strong smells, tastes, or textures. Certain perfumes, foods, or clothing fabrics can be disturbing. For example, a scratchy sweater or a loud-sounding bus might provoke an urgent desire to avoid it. Many autistic men learn to notice what bothers them (like a noisy humming fridge or scratchy label) and adjust by moving away, using noise-cancelling headphones, or removing tags and labels.
Many autistic men feel more at ease when daily life follows a predictable pattern. Routines, rituals, and even special interests often serve to make the world feel more manageable. For example:
Strong preference for routines. Men with autism commonly stick to habits and schedules and can feel upset when things change unexpectedly. Taking the same route to work each day, following a detailed to-do list, or having a very specific bedtime ritual are familiar ways to reduce anxiety.
Repetitive behaviours and “stimming.” To cope with stress or sensory overload, many autistic men engage in repetitive actions (often called stimming). This might include rocking, tapping a foot, fidgeting with an object, or making the same motions with their hands. These movements provide sensory feedback that the person can control, helping to calm the nervous system. Such behaviours might look unusual to others, but they are often how autistic people handle stress or overstimulation.
Deep focus on special interests. Another common trait is having one or more intense interests or hobbies. Whether it’s collecting train timetables or memorising details about history, men with autism often spend large amounts of time learning and talking about these topics. They may become very knowledgeable or skilled in these areas. This deep focus can be a strength (leading to expertise) but also a sign that they might get so absorbed they lose track of time or forget other tasks. People around them might notice that they prefer this focused activity over a busy social life.
Understanding how Autistic people experience friendship, loneliness, and belonging is essential not only for providing meaningful support but also for fostering self-reflection, validation, and a deeper understanding of one’s identity within the broader social context.
Adult men with autism often report that work can be both a stress and a strength. Many have valuable skills, such as strong attention to detail or loyalty, but they may face hurdles in a typical work setting. Common workplace experiences include:
Sensory difficulties at work. Open offices, fluorescent lights, and background noise can be especially hard. One autistic person compares working in an open-plan office to feeling every sound “like a jackhammer drilling into your skull”. Many autistic men do best in quieter environments or with headphones to block noise. They might request a quiet room for concentrated work or take short breaks to recover from overstimulation.
Need for clear communication and structure. Ambiguous instructions or sudden changes can be confusing. While many employees rely on body language and nuance in meetings, some autistic men prefer very direct guidance. For example, a request like “Coordinate with the team” might be too vague – they would do better with a step-by-step plan or written checklist. This isn’t laziness or rigidity; rather, it reflects thinking in concrete terms. Many workplaces now recognise this and make reasonable adjustments: providing written instructions, using clear language, and setting realistic deadlines.
Social and executive challenges. Teamwork and networking can be harder. Social gatherings, group projects, or workplace parties may be exhausting for someone sensitive to people’s energy or noise. Transitions between tasks or adapting to last-minute changes can also spike anxiety. On the other hand, many autistic men excel at detail-oriented tasks, data analysis, coding, or other focused work, especially when given the right supports.
Like anyone else, autistic men care about their relationships but may express and process emotions differently. Three aspects often come up:
Expressing and identifying emotions. Many autistic individuals find it hard to name or show their own feelings (sometimes called alexithymia). For example, some might suddenly realise they’re very frustrated only after feeling physical tension for a long time. Others may learn to pinpoint emotions by matching them to physical cues (like a fast heartbeat) or by taking more time to reflect. Even though it might look like they don’t notice feelings, most do experience them deeply; they just may need different words or actions to communicate.
Understanding others’ emotions. Some men with autism don’t pick up on others’ facial expressions or tone as easily, but this does not mean they lack empathy. Men with autism may not outwardly show concern in expected ways but might still care, for example by helping quietly or remembering small details. Misconceptions happen when someone assumes lack of visible response means lack of caring – which isn’t true.
Building connections. Despite stereotypes, many autistic men do want friendships and romantic relationships. They might prefer fewer, more honest friends, and feel overwhelmed by superficial conversations. Often, connections form around shared interests: it can be easier to bond with someone who also loves a particular video game or science topic. Some relationships take more patience and learning, but they can be just as meaningful. When given understanding and time, autistic men can be supportive partners and loyal friends.
According to research, there are some noticeable differences between autism in men and women.
For example, one study has shown that 75% of autistic men display traits like repetitive behaviours and speech delays compared to only 40 % of females; however, it’s been thought this may be partly to do with the fact that traditional diagnostic tools have been developed based on male presentations of autism.
We also know that more men are diagnosed with autism than women. As discussed earlier, this doesn’t mean more men have autism than women. Rather, researchers believe that autistic men are less likely to engage in “masking”, where autistic individuals hide their traits to fit societal norms.
Women, on the other hand, tend to mask more extensively, even adapting their special interests to appear socially acceptable.
For men with autism, a formal diagnosis can provide clarity on why certain challenges exist and help to explain differences in perception and experience to others. It can also lead to support in education or the workplace, as well as access to financial benefits.
The diagnostic process in the UK, while sometimes lengthy, usually begins with speaking to a GP or health professional for a referral. After that referral is made and an assessment is carried out, a detailed report is typically provided, outlining the diagnosis and offering recommendations for support.
Although there is no medication for autism, there are many avenues of support that can help to improve daily life, access to services, and overall well-being. These include:
Support from Employers: Employers have a duty to assist autistic staff through reasonable adjustments. This includes offering things like flexible working hours, quiet workspaces, clear communication methods, and structured tasks.
Support in Education: In universities, staff have a responsibility to ensure students with autism have access to the right tools and resources. This allows them to work at their own pace, talk through struggles, and achieve their full potential. Most institutions have Disability Advisors on hand to help with these things.
Support from Charities and Organisations: Charities like the National Autistic Society offer some excellent resources for both people with autism and their employers. They can provide advice on benefits, employment, mental health, and community connections. They also offer online training and social groups.
Government support: Since autism is classed as a disability in the UK, jobseekers and employees with autism can use the UK Access to Work scheme to secure grants and other funding. This money can be used for interview support, mental health resources, specialist equipment, and more.
If you have autism and have already received a diagnosis, never be afraid to reach out for help. We know that many people with autism have incredible strengths like creativity, problem-solving abilities, compassion, and unique perspectives – all of which can emerge brilliantly when needs are recognised and barriers are removed.
If you suspect an employee may be autistic, approach the situation with care and respect for their privacy. Autism is personal, and many go undiagnosed due to masking or lack of awareness.
Unless someone has disclosed their diagnosis or requested accommodations, it’s best not to ask them if they have autism. Instead, try to create an inclusive workplace where all employees feel valued and supported. Offer flexible arrangements, be open with all staff about reasonable adjustments, create safe spaces for discussion, and provide clear instructions to avoid singling anyone out.
The more inclusive your workplace is, the more comfortable staff will feel voicing their needs.
Our small but mighty team builds leading-edge software that people love. We pride ourselves on a user-led approach to product design. The voice of the customer shapes what we create and that’s exactly how great assistive tech should be made.
