Mothers and fathers' perception of social-responsive behaviors of autistic individuals

Background The interplay between behavioral differences presented by autistic males and females, and gender norms might influence caregivers’ behavior perceptions, contributing to the later identification of autistic females. Aim Our study aims to investigate differences in mothers' and fathers’ perceptions of children's behaviors typically associated with autism. Further, we aim to analyze parental perception of children's behaviors in relation to their offspring's sex. Second, our objective is to examine differences in the perception of behaviors of males and females to better understand females’ phenotypes and potential reasons for their underdiagnosis Methods The sample consisted of 40 children and adolescents (M chronological age = 8.75 years, SD = 1.10, Range = 4–16.75), 20 males and 20 females, with their mothers and fathers. Parental perceptions are studied through the Social Responsiveness Scale, a quantitative report instrument that assesses autistic characteristics. Results Mothers and fathers reported similar profiles of their children. However, females presented better abilities in relation to Social Communication and fewer Mannerisms than males. However, clinicians’ observations scores related to the ADOS-2 did not show evidence of differences in behavioural characteristics typically associated with autism. Conclusions These mechanisms should be further explored as they might partly determine females’ later diagnosis. Children's age plays a significant role, as older individuals present more severe behaviors associated with autism in the dimensions previously mentioned and Social Motivation. Hence, a late diagnosis can exacerbate behavioral presentation of autism.