How does autism differ for men and women?

There are more men and boys diagnosed autistic than women and girls. It used to be understood that autism was more common in males than females. However, research is now showing that this may be due to females being better at masking themselves in social situations. This means they observe and study how others act in situations and try to copy their behaviour to cover how. 

For more on the latest research, go to the National Autistic Society website www.autism.org.uk.