In recent years, a growing body of research has highlighted an important and often misunderstood area of human diversity: the intersection between autism and gender diversity.
For many individuals, experiences of being autistic and transgender or gender-diverse are closely connected and form an essential part of their identity. Understanding this intersection is crucial if we are to provide compassionate, inclusive, and informed support to all individuals. Whether you are a person exploring your own identity, a family member, or a professional, it is vital to recognise and affirm these overlapping experiences.
What Does the Research Say?
Several studies over the past few years have shown that autistic individuals are more likely to identify as transgender or gender-diverse compared to the general population.
- A large study by the Autism Research Centre at the University of Cambridge (Warrier et al., 2020) found that transgender and gender-diverse people are between three and six times more likely to be autistic than cisgender people.
- Another study published in Nature Communications (2021) involving over 600,000 participants found that autistic traits were higher among transgender and gender-diverse individuals, suggesting a meaningful overlap rather than coincidence.
- A systematic review (Strang et al., 2020) also pointed to elevated rates of gender diversity in autistic populations across multiple different studies and countries.
Why Might There Be an Overlap?
Researchers and autistic self-advocates have proposed several possible explanations for why this overlap exists:
- Authenticity and less social conformity: Autistic individuals may be less bound by social expectations and stereotypes, which could make them more open to recognising and embracing a gender identity that differs from societal norms.
- Deep self-reflection: Some autistic individuals experience a strong internal sense of identity and engage in deep self-reflection, which can support exploration of gender.
- Heightened sensory awareness: Sensory sensitivities might make aspects of physical gender expression (such as clothing or body changes) feel particularly significant, contributing to a strong awareness of gender dysphoria or euphoria.
Challenges Faced by Autistic Transgender People
Unfortunately, autistic transgender and gender-diverse individuals often face additional barriers compared to their neurotypical peers or cisgender autistic people.
Many report difficulties accessing appropriate healthcare, whether due to a lack of autism awareness among gender identity clinics or a lack of gender-affirming care within autism services.
- Mental health disparities: Rates of anxiety, depression, self-harm, and suicidal ideation are significantly higher in this group.
- Communication barriers: Navigating complex healthcare or social systems can be particularly difficult for autistic people, especially when those systems are not designed with neurodivergence in mind.
- Misunderstandings and invalidation: Some autistic individuals have reported that their gender identity was questioned or dismissed by professionals who wrongly assumed it was a ‘symptom’ of autism rather than a valid part of who they are.
How Can We Better Support Autistic Transgender People?
Affirmation is key to supporting individuals at this intersection. Here are some ways we can help:
- Listen and believe: Always listen to an individual’s experiences and affirm their identity without judgement.
- Accessible care: Healthcare providers should ensure that both autism-specific needs and gender-specific needs are addressed sensitively.
- Training for professionals: All healthcare providers, educators, and support workers should receive training in both autism and gender diversity.
- Community and peer support: Peer groups that are welcoming to both autistic and gender-diverse individuals can provide crucial social connection and validation.
- Celebrating strengths: Autistic transgender people bring unique perspectives, creativity, and resilience that should be celebrated and valued.
A Final Word: Affirmation and Respect Save Lives
For autistic transgender individuals, having their identities respected and affirmed can literally be lifesaving. Research has shown that support, acceptance, and access to appropriate care dramatically reduce mental health risks. At a societal level, it is essential that we continue to foster environments — in healthcare, education, workplaces, and communities — that are inclusive and supportive of all forms of human diversity.
If you are an autistic transgender person or exploring either aspect of your identity, know that your experiences are valid, your identity is real, and you deserve respect and support.
You are not alone.
References
- Warrier, V., et al. (2020). Elevated rates of autism, other neurodevelopmental and psychiatric diagnoses, and autistic traits in transgender and gender-diverse individuals. Nature Communications.
- Strang, J. F., et al. (2020). Initial clinical guidelines for co-occurring autism spectrum disorder and gender dysphoria or incongruence in adolescents. Journal of Clinical Child & Adolescent Psychology.
- University of Cambridge (2023). Research Summary.
