Related Experiment Video
Updated: Apr 16, 2026
06:15
Using the Visual World Paradigm to Study Sentence Comprehension in Mandarin-Speaking Children with Autism
Published on: October 3, 2018
8.3K
Gender identity and autism spectrum disorders
Gerrit I van Schalkwyk1, Katherine Klingensmith1, Fred R Volkmar2
1Department of Psychiatry, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut.
The Yale Journal of Biology and Medicine
|March 7, 2015
Summary
Gender dysphoria may be more common in individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Further research is needed due to limited data and conceptual challenges in understanding gender identity in ASD.
Area of Science:
- Neurodevelopmental Disorders
- Gender Studies
- Psychiatry
Background:
- Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition characterized by differences in social communication and interaction.
- Gender-related concerns, including gender dysphoria (GD), have been increasingly discussed in relation to ASD.
- Existing literature suggests a potential higher prevalence of GD in individuals with ASD, though research is limited.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review existing literature on gender-related concerns and ASD.
- To identify shortcomings in current understanding and discuss clinical implications.
- To advocate for equal rights in treatment for gender dysphoria in individuals with ASD.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of existing studies on ASD and gender identity.
- Analysis of conceptual challenges in understanding gender identity within the context of ASD.
- Discussion of potential clinical approaches for supporting individuals with ASD exploring their gender identity.
Main Results:
- The current body of literature on ASD and gender dysphoria is quantitatively limited.
- Conceptual challenges exist in defining and understanding gender identity in individuals with ASD.
- There is a need to broaden the social frame and facilitate exploration of gender roles for individuals with ASD.
Conclusions:
- Individuals with ASD should have equal rights to treatment for gender dysphoria.
- Clinicians can support individuals with ASD by facilitating exploration of gender identity and roles.
- Further research is critical to address the shortcomings in our understanding of gender identity in ASD.
Related Concept Videos
01:19Autism Spectrum Disorder
1.9K
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition marked by persistent deficits in social communication and interaction alongside restrictive and repetitive behaviors or interests. ASD is sometimes accompanied by intellectual impairment.
These core symptoms manifest differently among individuals, ranging from mild to severe. The disorder's complexity extends beyond its clinical presentation, encompassing a diverse range of biological, cognitive, and sociocultural influences.
These core symptoms manifest differently among individuals, ranging from mild to severe. The disorder's complexity extends beyond its clinical presentation, encompassing a diverse range of biological, cognitive, and sociocultural influences.
1.9K
01:26Modeling in Therapy
753
Modeling, a key technique in therapy, uses observational learning to help clients acquire and practice new skills by watching therapists demonstrate desired behaviors. This approach, rooted in Albert Bandura's concept of vicarious learning, plays a significant role in therapeutic interventions for various psychological conditions, including social anxiety, ADHD, and depression.
Participant Modeling
Participant modeling involves therapists demonstrating calm and effective behaviors in...
Participant Modeling
Participant modeling involves therapists demonstrating calm and effective behaviors in...
753
01:30Socioemotional Experience and Gender Development
407
Social-emotional experiences and cultural influences play significant roles in shaping gender development. During middle childhood, from ages 6 to 11, peer groups become dominant in reinforcing gender norms. Children in this age group often align with same-gender peer groups, which actively encourage behaviors that conform to traditional gender roles. For instance, boys may be discouraged from engaging in activities perceived as feminine, reinforcing culturally dictated norms about masculinity...
407
01:28Social Anxiety Disorder
846
Social anxiety disorder, also known as social phobia, is characterized by an intense fear of social situations where one might face humiliation, rejection, embarrassment, or negative evaluation. This disorder leads individuals to avoid activities like casual conversations, public speaking, or seemingly simple tasks such as eating, signing documents, or swimming, in public settings. Its impact extends beyond discomfort, often significantly interfering with daily functioning and quality of life.
846
01:29Social Identity
465
Social identity constitutes a significant aspect of an individual’s self-concept, shaped by membership in various social groups, including gender, nationality, ethnicity, sexual orientation, and political affiliation. Individuals associate specific traits with particular social groups, leading to internalization of these traits. For example, musicians are often perceived as creative, while women are frequently associated with nurturing tendencies. Once individuals identify with a...
465
01:30Dissociative Identity Disorder
2.1K
Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID), previously termed multiple personality disorder, is a complex psychological condition characterized by the presence of two or more distinct identities or personality states. Each identity exhibits unique patterns of behavior, voice, and mannerisms and may possess separate memories and emotional responses. The alternating control between identities can result in memory gaps and challenges in recalling daily activities, often exacerbating the individual's...
2.1K