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.
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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.
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.
Read our recent newsletter on celebrating autism as a strength
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.
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