Grant: Master's Award: Canada Graduate Research Scholarships - Master's program

Autism Spectrum Disorder has largely been conceptualized using diagnostic criteria developed from predominantly male samples, contributing to missed or delayed diagnoses in females, particularly those with average or above average cognitive abilities. Emerging evidence shows that many autistic females engage in camouflaging behaviours, including masking, shallow and deep compensation, and accommodation. These strategies may help them navigate social situations but are also linked to anxiety, depression, and reduced quality of life. Females who camouflage extensively are often identified later in life, limiting early access to support. However, most existing research treats camouflaging as a single construct and rarely compares diagnosed autistic females with those who display high autistic traits but remain unidentified. This project aims to examine how distinct camouflaging strategies differ among autistic females, undiagnosed females with elevated autistic traits, and neurotypical females. It will also identify which strategies contribute to internalizing symptoms and delayed recognition. Participants aged 12-30 will complete measures of autistic traits, camouflaging behaviours, compensation strategies, and internalizing symptoms. Group comparisons and regression models will clarify behavioural patterns linked to psychological distress and under recognition. By distinguishing between psychologically costly strategies and potentially adaptive forms of compensation, this research will address a critical gap in understanding autism in females. Findings will inform more sensitive screening practices, reduce diagnostic inequities, and support interventions that minimize the emotional burdens of camouflaging.