This course provides an overview of autism in females throughout the lifespan. It will examine biological and neurological theories accounting for sex differences. The course will also explore clinical presentations of autism in females, including diagnostic markers, unique strengths, and common phenomena, such as masking and camouflaging. It will focus on barriers to timely and accurate identification, as well as consequences of getting a late diagnosis. It will discuss co-existing psychiatric and medical conditions as they relate to differential diagnosis and treatment directions, with a particular focus on personality disorders. The course will review the benefits of accurate diagnosis, with an emphasis on the perspectives of autistic people, their families, and the neurodiverse community. Finally, the course will explore diagnostic approaches for accurate assessment of autistic females, with an emphasis on differential diagnosis of autism and borderline personality disorder, as well as recommendations for clinicians working with this population. Presented by Lindsey Sterling, PhD |