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Gender Differences in Self-Reported Social Participation in Adults With Autism
Wei Song1, Mark S Salzer1, Hillary R Steinberg1
1Wei Song, Drexel University; Mark S. Salzer, Temple University; Hillary R. Steinberg and Lindsay L. Shea, Drexel University.
American Journal on Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities
|February 25, 2025
Summary
Adults with autism show no gender differences in total social activity days. However, autistic women without intellectual disability (ID) participate less in important social activities compared to men.
Area of Science:
- Neurodevelopmental disorders
- Social psychology
- Disability studies
Background:
- Limited research exists on gender disparities in social participation among autistic adults.
- Social activities are crucial for community integration and well-being.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate gender differences in social participation among adults with autism.
- To explore the moderating role of intellectual disability (ID) in these differences.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of a large statewide sample (N = 775) of autistic adults, including females (n = 217) and males (n = 558).
- Examination of social participation metrics, considering the presence or absence of intellectual disability.
Main Results:
- No significant gender differences were observed in the total number of participation days.
- Autistic women without ID reported lower engagement and perceived sufficiency in important social activities compared to their male counterparts.
- Autistic women without ID reported lower satisfaction with participation levels in important social activities than autistic women with ID.
Conclusions:
- Gender differences in social participation among autistic adults are nuanced and influenced by intellectual disability status.
- Findings highlight specific challenges faced by autistic women without ID in meaningful social engagement.
- Understanding these differences is vital for developing targeted support across the lifespan.
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