Published on 12, July, 2020
My experience, based on a rather small sample, is that there is a strong overlap between being on the Spectrum and having at least some doubts about ones gender identity. Possibly our lack of social awareness (= tact) means we are more ready to admit to something that most people would keep well hidden. Possibly there is a real correlation.
At one point I found that of the four male Aspies regularly posting to a small forum, three had well developed female personas. Too small a sample, but interesting. Another forum member was a paintball ref and really one of the lads (and female).
Anyone else willing to speak for themselves? Any parents noticed boyish girls or girlish boys?
Interesting....
In terms of how I identify myself, I am very definitely female. Absolutely 100%.
As far as society's pigeon-holes... I'm not a girly-girl, I like to wear clothes that are comfortable. And if you think I'm taking tweezers to my eyebrows etc you've got another think coming. But I'm definitely not a tomboy. I like skirts and dresses. And I don't object to makeup if I'm going out, although it's too much effort for every day. Make of that what you will.
Now in my case, I think my strong sense of female-ness has confused my understanding of my sexuality. I am beginning to suspect that I am not in fact bisexual, but that the biological imperative to procreate couple with the confusion of undiagnosed autism has caused me to confuse friendship for more. Lots more thought needed...