Experience of an autistic woman regarding her diagnosis in adulthood and the implications for her social performance

Abstract

Introduction: Evidence indicates a higher prevalence of autism in men than women. This discrepancy is explained by: (1) gender bias in the study of autism, (2) differences in the expressions of autism according to gender, (3) gender bias in the diagnosis, (4) camouflage and masking strategies in autistic women, and (5) comorbidities that conceal the diagnosis of autism. Consequently, women are more likely to receive an autism diagnosis in adulthood. Objective: To explore the experience of an autistic woman diagnosed in adulthood, focusing on her occupational performance in the social area. Methodology: This is a qualitative study employing an interpretive paradigm and a phenomenological approach. Results: The interview was organized and analyzed into three categories: Pre-diagnosis, Post-diagnosis, and Understanding Diagnosis in Adulthood from a Gender Perspective. The results show how the absence of a diagnosis hinders social performance. Receiving a diagnosis allowed her to understand herself better and facilitated her relationship with her environment. Conclusion: A diagnosis of autism in adulthood affects the social performance of women who experience it; more evidence needs to be generated.