Intellectual disabilities moderate sex/gender differences in autism spectrum disorder: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Resource type: Publication Publication
  • Authors
    Saure, E.; Castrén, M.; Mikkola, K.; Salmi, J.
  • Type
    Original research
  • Journal
    Journal of Intellectual Disability Research
  • Publication Date
    2023
  • Abstract

    Background: Girls/women with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) are suggested to exhibit different symptom profiles than boys/men with ASD. Accumulating evidence suggests that intellectual disability (ID) may affect sex/gender differences in ASD. However, a systematic review and meta-analysis on this topic is missing.

    Methods: Two databases (MEDLINE and PsycINFO) were used to search for studies reporting sex/gender differences (girls/women versus boys/men) in social communication and interaction, restrictive and repetitive behaviour and interests (RRBIs), sensory processing, and linguistic and motor abilities in ASD. The final sample consisted of 79 studies. The meta-analysis was performed with Review Manager using a random-effects model. Participants with ASD without and with ID were analysed as separate subgroups, and the effects in these two subgroups were also compared with each other.

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