Signs of Autism in Boys

Did you know that boys are four times more likely to be diagnosed with autism than girls? Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a developmental disorder that can cause difficulty with communication, social interactions, and behavior. While there are more similarities than differences between boys and girls with autism, recognizing the signs of autism in boys is important for early diagnosis and treatment. This can help parents, educators, and therapists get children the support they need.

The treatment process for autism may look different for boys than it does for girls. Knowing the signs of autism in boys can help you decide what type of therapy or treatment is most appropriate.

Why Does ASD Affect More Boys Than Girls?

The exact reasoning behind why ASD affects more boys than girls is not fully understood. Researchers believe the cause could be tied to genetics, hormones, or environmental factors. It’s also possible that girls who would meet the criteria for an autism diagnosis simply aren’t assessed because symptoms may look different in girls. Masking, which is the term used to describe the way people with ASD can appear to hide their symptoms, might also be more common in girls.

Common Signs of Autism in Boys

Each person with autism is unique, but there are some common signs that may indicate an autism diagnosis in boys. These signs can include:

• Difficulty with social interactions, such as not understanding personal boundaries or having trouble reading nonverbal cues
• Repetitive behaviors, such as repeating words or phrases, lining up toys, or flapping their hands
• Resistance to change in routine
• Difficulty understanding abstract concepts, such as humor or metaphors
• Sensory issues, such as not wanting to wear certain fabrics, being overly sensitive to noise, or having an unusual interest in tactile sensations
• Difficulty communicating, such as not responding to questions or using a flat tone of voice

This is not an exhaustive list, as there can be many other signs of autism in boys. If you think your son may have ASD, the best step is to talk to a doctor or psychologist to get a proper diagnosis.

Getting the Right Treatment for Autism in Boys

Receiving an autism diagnosis can be overwhelming for families, but it’s also a step toward getting the right treatment. With early diagnosis and intervention, children with autism can reach their full potential. Meaningful interventions for autism in boys should be tailored to each individual and account for any unique symptoms or behaviors.

Some of the most effective interventions for autism include:

• Applied behavioral analysis (ABA) – A type of therapy that uses positive reinforcement to encourage desired behaviors and discourage undesirable ones
• Behavioral management therapy – A type of therapy that focuses on teaching children how to regulate their emotions and behavior
• Social skills groups – Groups that can help children with ASD learn how to interact and communicate in a more appropriate way

Autism treatment services can take place at home, in a treatment center, or even in school. One of the most important things to look for in a treatment provider is support for family members, such as support groups or parent training.

Call Rising Above ABA Today for Autism Treatment

If you’re looking for autism treatment services, look no further than Rising Above ABA. Our team of experienced professionals is dedicated to helping children with autism reach their goals. We offer highly individualized services to help your son gain the skills needed for success.

Care, professionalism, and training are the pillars of our autism treatment services. We partner with families every step of the way to ensure loved ones are informed and involved in their child’s progress.

Call Rising Above ABA today at 888.572.7473 or reach out online to learn more about our autism treatment services. Start your journey to a brighter future for your child today.