How does the intersection of gender and race affect autism diagnosis?

PostedNovember 18, 2025

UpdatedNovember 18, 2025

ByMy Patient Advice

Author: Beatrice Holloway, MSc | Reviewed by: Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

The process of obtaining an autism diagnosis can be influenced by a range of social and cultural factors, and the intersection of gender and race adds further complexity. Research shows that autistic traits may present differently across various groups, yet assessment tools do not always account for these differences. When intersectionality: the combined effect of multiple identity factors is overlooked, diagnoses can be delayed or missed altogether.

For instance, girls may mask social difficulties more effectively than boys, leading professionals to underestimate their needs. Likewise, cultural expectations and norms can shape how certain behaviours are perceived, potentially affecting whether families seek evaluation or whether clinicians identify autism traits accurately.

How the Intersection of Identity Factors Affects Assessment

Below are some ways demographic influences can shape the outcome of an autism diagnosis.

Variation in symptom presentation

Individuals from different backgrounds may display autism traits in ways that do not match conventional diagnostic profiles.

Cultural interpretation of behaviours

Eye contact, communication style, and social interaction norms can vary significantly, influencing how behaviours are judged.

Limitations in current screening tools

Many tools are developed using narrow population samples, which may not reflect the diversity of those being assessed.

Improving accuracy in autism diagnosis means expanding research, updating assessment tools, and ensuring clinicians are trained in culturally responsive practices.

For tailored advice and support, visit providers like Autism Detect for personal consultations.

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to cultural and gender barriers in diagnosis.

Beatrice Holloway, MSc

Author

Beatrice Holloway is a clinical psychologist with a Master’s in Clinical Psychology and a BS in Applied Psychology. She specialises in CBT, psychological testing, and applied behaviour therapy, working with children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), developmental delays, and learning disabilities, as well as adults with bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, anxiety, OCD, and substance use disorders. Holloway creates personalised treatment plans to support emotional regulation, social skills, and academic progress in children, and delivers evidence-based therapy to improve mental health and well-being across all ages.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the author's privacy.

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Reviewer

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez is a UK-trained physician with an MBBS and experience in general surgery, cardiology, internal medicine, gynecology, intensive care, and emergency medicine. She has managed critically ill patients, stabilised acute trauma cases, and provided comprehensive inpatient and outpatient care. In psychiatry, Dr. Fernandez has worked with psychotic, mood, anxiety, and substance use disorders, applying evidence-based approaches such as CBT, ACT, and mindfulness-based therapies. Her skills span patient assessment, treatment planning, and the integration of digital health solutions to support mental well-being.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the reviewer's privacy.