Sex Matters in Autism and Other Developmental Disabilities

Abstract

We have paid little attention to gender differences in developmental disabilities aside from the purpose of establishing prevalence. Yet, studying sex differences in the incidence and presentation of developmental disability and mental health disorders may contribute to our understanding of the neural circuitry and neurochemistry of both the normal and the abnormal brain. Furthermore, investigation into gender difference may have practical implications, as we may need to design sex-specific interventions for persons with developmental disability. In this article, we first review sex differences in typically developing children as well as some of the literature on the biology proposed to explain those differences. We then explore differences in prevalence and presentation of several developmental and mental health disorders as they may relate to biological mechanisms–with special attention to autism. Finally, we look at research needs as they relate to sex in developmental disability.