The school experiences of autistic girls and adolescents: a systematic review

The purpose of the current review is to provide an overview of research relating to the school experiences of autistic females throughout childhood and adolescence. Web and database searches were conducted between December 2017 and April 2018 to identify studies exploring school experiences of autistic females. Eight studies met the inclusion criteria and the data were analysed using a framework synthesis methodology, where a conceptual framework of general autistic experiences in education was used to map study findings onto. Key themes were identified, highlighting similarities between autistic girls and boys in several areas, including sensory issues and difficulties with peer relationships. Noteworthy differences included contrasting perspectives between staff and parents in relation to the girls’ experiences, as well as the greater tendency for girls to mask their difficulties. The implications of these findings are discussed in the context of professional practice and directions for further research.