Abstract

Why is Autism Spectrum Disorder so misunderstood in girls and women and why do so many go under the radar without the support that they need? This practical guide explains the unique issues that affect females with autism and provides tools and strategies that girls, women and their families can use in day-to-day life.

Following the story of Alison, a girl diagnosed with Asperger Syndrome, through both childhood and adulthood, we get an inside view of the challenges that girls and women with autism face. Straightforward information and advice is provided on key topics including:

· social skills and communication
· how to overcome bullying
· sensory issues and food sensitivity
· the need for routine
· perceptions of gender
· and physiological changes.

Essential reading for parents of daughters on the spectrum, as well as girls and women who carry the diagnosis themselves.

This book provides a refreshing and empowering look at the female experience of autism spectrum disorders throughout the life span. Dr McKibbin's compassionate insights on the challenges and gifts unique to girls and women on the spectrum will leave readers inspired. This is a refreshing opportunity for readers to shift their focus from how autism sets individuals apart to truly appreciating the common threads that bind us together. Truly, a must read.
Erin Moran, Psy.D., Clinical Psychologist
Life on the Autism Spectrum - A Guide for Girls and Women is a natural and welcome progression in the growing catalog of literature aimed at understanding the complexities of females with Asperger's.
Rudy Simone, author of Aspergirls and Aunt Aspie’s Weapon of Mass Instruction
Karen has used her extensive clinical experience and insight, as well as compassion, to write the definitive guide to the key characteristics, adjustments and behaviours associated with the female expression of ASD. This is the primary source for guidance for parents and professionals, and also for girls and women who have Asperger's syndrome.
From the foreword by Tony Attwood, Clinical Psychologist and author of The Complete Guide to Asperger’s Syndrome
Karen McKibbin is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and has worked with individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder for over 15 years. She was mentored by Dr Tony Attwood and spent time working with him in his clinics in Australia. She now runs a successful practice specializing in working with females with high-functioning autism and Asperger Syndrome. She lives in Portland, OR.
McKibbin's solid research and clinical experiences work together in this book to give voice and support to countless autistic and Aspie females who have been misdiagnosed, misunderstood or simply missed altogether. Thank you, Dr. McKibbin!
Liane Holliday Willey, EdD, author of Pretending to be Normal and Safety Skills for Asperger Women
Karen has contributed a valuable addition to the growing wealth of knowledge about the female autistic profile. With real-life examples and tips for living well, this book will support autistic women to gain the real sense of our own identity that we all need.
Sarah Hendrickx, Autistic Adult and Autism Specialist, author of Women and Girls with ASD: Understanding Life Experiences from Early Childhood to Old Age