How To Academy Podcast Gina Rippon - How Science Failed Autistic Women
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May 2, 2025 Gina Rippon, a renowned neuroscientist and author of "The Lost Girls of Autism," explores the often-overlooked experiences of autistic women. She reveals how generations of research have misrepresented female autism by focusing predominantly on males, leading to significant challenges in diagnosis. Rippon discusses the troubling phenomenon of camouflaging, where women hide their autistic traits to fit in. With personal stories and insights, she advocates for a better understanding of autism's diverse expressions and the unique struggles faced by women, especially during their adolescent years.
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Female Autism Historically Ignored
- Autism was historically considered only a male condition, leading to females being poorly recognized and studied.
- Late-diagnosed women shared personal stories revealing this major gap in autism research.
Camouflaging Masks Female Autism
- Girls with autism often camouflage or mask their traits to fit in socially.
- This camouflaging obscures female autism, contributing to underdiagnosis and misunderstanding.
Desire to Belong Drives Masking
- Autistic females strongly desire social belonging despite difficulties.
- Their social motivation leads them to mask behaviors, contrasting the stereotype of aloof autism.