AUTISM AND GENDER DYSPHORIA: A NARRATIVE REVIEW OF THEIR COEXISTENCE AND CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS

• DOI: https://doi.org/10.22533/at.ed.1594112423017

• Palavras-chave: Autism Spectrum Disorder, Autism, Gender Dysphoria.

• Keywords: Autism Spectrum Disorder, Autism, Gender Dysphoria.

• Abstract:

  Objective: Analyze the existing scientific literature in order to highlight and understand the coexistence of autism and gender dysphoria, as well as their clinical implications, in order to provide an updated and comprehensive overview of the topic. 
  Methods: Narrative bibliographic review through the PubMed database using the search terms “Autistic Disorder”, “Autism Spectrum Disorder” and “Gender Dysphoria”, in association with the Boolean operators “OR” and “AND”, initially resulting in 79 articles. After evaluation based on inclusion and exclusion criteria, only 16 articles became official sources for the present study. Discussion: The studies reviewed highlight the importance of an integrated approach when examining the co-occurrence between Autism and Gender Dysphoria, in addition to exploring possible etiological connections with maternal exposure to testosterone during pregnancy. Furthermore, several social and behavioral factors, such as prejudice and cognitive inflexibility, influence the dynamics of belonging. The lack of family support and the lack of attendance at appointments emerge as some of the obstacles that hinder both the diagnosis and the promotion of mental health in affected individuals. Final considerations: Studies indicate that the coexistence between Autism and Gender Dysphoria is a significant challenge, requiring a personalized therapeutic approach. This complex interaction requires a deeper understanding to promote adequate diagnosis, treatment, mental health, well-being and emotional support.