Gender Differences in Social Inclusion of Youth with Autism and Intellectual Disability

The aim of this study was to delve into the role of gender differences in social inclusion of children and youth with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and intellectual disability (ID). A sample of 420 participants with ASD and ID aged between 4 and 21 years was evaluated using the ASD-KidsLife Scale. Females obtained lower scores in most of the items of social inclusion. These differences remained when the covariables of level of ID, support needs, and age were controlled. None of the items presented differential item functioning as a function of gender. Gender differences, as were found in social inclusion, are discussed and recommendations are given in order to provide equal opportunities to girls and boys with ASD.