Understanding experiences of women with autism spectrum disorder

A systematic review of qualitative findings in foreign literature

Abstract

This study reviewed qualitative literature exploring experiences of women with autism spectrum disorder （ASD） to identify qualitative characteristics of such women and synthesize findings on how women with ASD experience their lives. English language publications during the last 20 years were searched; 19 articles matching this study’s inclusion criteria were selected, and major topics related to women’s unique experiences were reviewed. The results suggested that women with ASD struggled to adapt to their social context and that autistic characteristics might affect their experience of significant life events. Further research is needed to explore their experiences in terms of ASD traits and living as women.