Understanding the Enigma: Autism in Girls - A Conversation with Dr. Melody Abbene

Inclusive Education Project (IEP) Podcast

Today’s topic is one that many people don’t recognize or acknowledge: autism in girls. Autism seems to present differently and to be much more commonly diagnosed in boys, so let’s learn more with today’s guest.

Dr. Melody Abbene is a clinical psychologist with a specialty in working with neurodivergent people, most of whom are autistic. She does therapeutic work and adult autism assessments and is based in Los Angeles.

Show Highlights:

• The differences in autism that present internally (more common in girls) and externally (more common in boys)
• Why girls with autism seem to blend in better with their peers
• Where parents should begin if they suspect their child is neurodivergent
• How parents can best communicate with the school team about the internal presentation of their child’s autism
• How to tell that a child might have internalized autism
• How “masking” is defined and described
• Why girls are more likely to be labeled with emotional disturbances and misdiagnosed

Links/Resources:

Connect with Dr. Melody Abbene: Website

Contact us on social media or through our website for more information on the IEP Learning Center: www.inclusiveeducationproject.org

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