Transidentities and autism spectrum disorder: A systematic review

Area of Science:

• Neurodevelopmental Disorders
• Gender Identity Studies

Background:

• Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and transgender identity frequently co-occur, yet comprehensive reviews synthesizing themes beyond mere frequency are limited.
• Existing research often focuses on prevalence, necessitating a broader exploration of associated factors and implications.

Approach:

• A systematic review following the PRISMA method was conducted, analyzing 77 articles (59 clinical studies) published up to April 2022.
• The review synthesized findings across five key themes: sex ratio, etiological theories, sexual orientation, clinical/social consequences, and care implications.

Key Points:

• Theories suggest autistic social difficulties may foster greater gender diversity by reducing adherence to gender norms.
• Challenges in social interaction and communication for autistic individuals can lead to delayed disclosure and increased risk of suffering.
• Autism is not a contraindication for gender-affirming care, but cognitive specificities require tailored care planning.
• Autistic transgender individuals face heightened risks of discrimination, harassment, and delayed access to specialized care.

Conclusions:

• A deeper understanding of the co-occurrence of transgender identity and autism is crucial.
• There is a significant need for increased awareness and specialized, informed care pathways for autistic transgender individuals.
• Interdisciplinary approaches are essential to address the unique clinical and social needs of this population.