AOTA

Emily C. Skaletski, MOT, OTR/L

PhD Student, University of Wisconsin–Madison Department of Kinesiology

Madison, WI

Sapna Chakraborty, OTD

Department Head, Missouri State University

Occupational Therapy Department

Springfield, MO

Brittany G. Travers, PhD

Principal Investigator, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Waisman Center

Associate Professor, University of Wisconsin-Madison Department of Kinesiology, Occupational Therapy Program

Madison, WI

Abstract

As a spectrum disorder, autism varies from person to person and demonstrates different characteristics between males and females. Autistic females are less frequently identified, and knowledge surrounding their experience is limited. It is critical that providers have a strong understanding of the experience of autistic females. This article discusses common occupational performance concerns of autistic females, provides considerations for evaluation, and describes several evidence-based intervention strategies that have been studied with autistic females.

Learning Objectives

1.  Describe the differences in symptoms of autistic females and autistic males that may affect occupational engagement, within the context of heterogeneity across the autism spectrum

2.  Identify considerations for compiling an occupational profile and completing the evaluation process with autistic females

3.  Determine occupational therapy interventions that will support occupational participation of autistic females.

Learning Level: Introductory

Target Audience: Occupational Therapy Practitioners and Occupational Therapy Assistants

Content Focus: Category 1: Domain of Occupational Therapy; Areas of Occupation

Category 2: Occupational Therapy Process; Evaluation, Intervention, and Outcomes

Reference Information:

Skaletski, Emily C., MOT, OTR/L; Chakraborty, Sapna, OTD; Travers, Brittany G., PhD

(CEA August, 2021) Occupational Therapy and Autistic Females