Analysis of sex differences in cognitive profiles and cognitive flexibility in school-aged autistic individuals

Autistic females show different socio-communicative abilities compared to males. Considering the association between these and cognitive development, the relevance of studying cognitive profiles’ sex differences is underscored. However, current literature is limited and findings are inconsistent. Further, cognitive flexibility is often disregarded. This study included 18 males and 18 females aged 7–17 years (mean = 12.10y months; sd = 2.69y). Participants were matched based on chronological age and intelligence quotient, including only autistic individuals without associated cognitive difficulties. Cognitive profiles were studied using the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children-IV and the Wisconsin Card Sorting Test. Females presented an advantage in processing speed, while males in visuospatial abilities assessed with the block design task. These differences mirror differences in the neurotypical population. No differences emerged in the correlations between cognitive and socio-communicative difficulties parameters; this might be due to the global evaluation of the latter area using an instrument biased towards males. However, a significant correlation was found between cognitive inflexibility and social aspects in females but not in males.