Gender Bias in Neurodiversity: Why Are Women Often Overlooked?
The conversation around neurodiversity has gained significant momentum in recent years, encouraging greater awareness of differences in thinking, learning, and behaviour. However, despite this growing awareness, a gender bias in diagnosis of neurodifferences still exists, leading to many women being overlooked. This blog delves into why neurodiversity in women is often underdiagnosed, the effects of this oversight, and strategies for addressing gender bias in neurodiversity.
Neurodivergent Traits: How They Can Differ Between Genders
Research has shown that men are generally diagnosed with neurodifferences earlier in life. For example, boys often receive an ADHD diagnosis around age 7, while many women may not be diagnosed until their late 30s or early 40s. Women tend to display traits that are more subtle or less stereotypical than those seen in men. Additionally, many diagnostic tools for ADHD and autism have been designed with a male perspective in mind, based on research conducted with men and boys, which may not fully capture how these neurodifferences manifest in women.
Autistic traits in women are also often more subtle and less typical than in men. Women are more likely to engage in masking, where they consciously or unconsciously mimic socially acceptable behaviours to blend in. Similarly, women with ADHD may show less hyperactivity and more inattentiveness than men, making their neurodifference harder to recognise. These gender differences in how neurodivergent traits appear often lead to women being underdiagnosed or misdiagnosed with conditions like anxiety or depression instead of autism or ADHD. Whilst neurodifferences can co-occur with these mental health conditions, it is common for the presenting mental health condition to be picked up, whilst the underlying neurodifference is missed.
The Impact of Misdiagnosis and Late Diagnosis on Neurodivergent Women
Misdiagnosis and masking neurodivergent traits can greatly affect the mental health of individuals, and in this case, women whose neurodifference remains undiagnosed. Without a proper understanding of their needs, or due to misdiagnosis, they may face challenges with confidence, mental wellbeing and experience burnout. Misdiagnosis can also lead to inappropriate treatment from medical practitioners.
Additionally, when women receive a diagnosis later in life, they may feel a sense of loss for the years spent without the knowledge or support that could have made a positive difference in their lives.
Strategies to Address Gender Bias in Neurodiversity
The impact of misdiagnosis or late diagnosis is crucial to address. One way to tackle this bias is by encouraging more research focused on neurodiversity in women, as most existing studies have predominantly been centred around men. This has led to diagnostic criteria that do not fully reflect the experiences of neurodivergent women. More inclusive research can help reduce misdiagnosis and ensure that women receive the correct diagnosis earlier in life, enabling them to access the right support sooner.
Fostering open conversations about neurodiversity and gender can also create a more inclusive environment. By acknowledging that neurodiversity manifests differently in everyone, we can provide better support for all neurodivergent individuals. In particular, training of medical and education professionals so that they understand more about how neurodifferences may be present in girls and women is essential.
Resources for Neurodivergent Women
For women who suspect they might be neurodivergent or who have already received a diagnosis, connecting with supportive resources and communities can be incredibly valuable. Numerous organisations are dedicated to supporting neurodivergent women, offering everything from educational materials to counselling services. These resources can play a crucial role in helping women navigate their unique challenges and embrace their strengths. Some of these resources include:
If you’d like to learn more about supporting and empowering neurodivergent women, neurodivergent individuals in general or are simply curious about the topic, we’d love for you to book a chat with our team today.
This blog was written by Anushka Singh, Business Psychologist at Lexxic.