The Functioning of Adults with Autism in the Context of Gender Differences

Abstract

Nowadays autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is one of the most frequently diagnosed disordersamong children. First reports concerning autism were focused on children, that is why little isknown about adults with this disorder. Recent years have however provided interesting data on thistopic, also in context of diagnosis in adulthood. The article presents similarities and differencesbetween men and women within diagnostic field, functioning difficulties and adulthood challenges. Studies have shown that there are some differences in core symptoms of ASD depending onsex. Meta-analyses have indicated that gender differences issue especially in context of clinicalmanifestation of symptoms should still be intensely explored in order to improve diagnostic process and as a result achieve more effective support system for those people.