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Off the Spectrum
Why the Science of Autism Has Failed Women and Girls
Description
A cognitive neuroscientist reveals how autistic women have been overlooked by biased research—and makes a passionate case for their inclusion
Who comes to mind when you think about an autistic person? It might be yourself, a relative or friend, a public figure, a fictional character, or a stereotyped image. Regardless, for most of us, it’s likely to be someone male. Autistic women are systematically underdiagnosed, under-researched, and underserved by medical and social systems—to devastating effects.
In Off the Spectrum, cognitive neuroscientist Gina Rippon sheds light on how old ideas about autism leave women behind and how the scientific community must catch up. Generations of researchers, convinced autism was a male problem, simply didn’t bother looking for it in women, creating a snowball effect of biased research. To correct this “male spotlight” problem, Rippon outlines how autism presents differently in girls and women—like their tendency to camouflage their autistic traits, or how their intense interests may take a form considered to be more socially acceptable. When autism research studies don’t recruit female participants, Rippon argues, it’s not only autistic women who are failed; it’s the entire scientific community. Correcting a major scientific bias, Off the Spectrum provides a much-needed exploration of autism in women to parents, clinicians, and autistic women themselves.
Who comes to mind when you think about an autistic person? It might be yourself, a relative or friend, a public figure, a fictional character, or a stereotyped image. Regardless, for most of us, it’s likely to be someone male. Autistic women are systematically underdiagnosed, under-researched, and underserved by medical and social systems—to devastating effects.
In Off the Spectrum, cognitive neuroscientist Gina Rippon sheds light on how old ideas about autism leave women behind and how the scientific community must catch up. Generations of researchers, convinced autism was a male problem, simply didn’t bother looking for it in women, creating a snowball effect of biased research. To correct this “male spotlight” problem, Rippon outlines how autism presents differently in girls and women—like their tendency to camouflage their autistic traits, or how their intense interests may take a form considered to be more socially acceptable. When autism research studies don’t recruit female participants, Rippon argues, it’s not only autistic women who are failed; it’s the entire scientific community. Correcting a major scientific bias, Off the Spectrum provides a much-needed exploration of autism in women to parents, clinicians, and autistic women themselves.
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Praise
“This timely and engaging book illuminates the history of overlooked girls and women in autism research, unpacking cutting-edge genetic and neuroscience findings alongside insights from autistic women and girls themselves. A vital call to action, it charts a bold path forward to revolutionize research, understanding, support, and outcomes for this unique population.”
—Felicity Sedgewick, PhD, author of Autism and Masking
“Off the Spectrum shines a much-needed spotlight on the critical issue of autistic females being overlooked and misdiagnosed for far too long. This book is a powerful, well-researched exploration of how both science and the voices of lived experience must come together to bridge gaps in understanding. By weaving research with authentic perspectives from the community, Off the Spectrum offers a pathway toward ensuring that future generations of autistic women are recognized and supported—not left behind. It is an essential read for anyone who cares about fostering true inclusivity and understanding.”
—Maureen Dunne PhD, author of The Neurodiversity Edge
—Maureen Dunne PhD, author of The Neurodiversity Edge