When Special Interests Look Typical: Understanding the Hidden Intensity in Autistic Girls

• By: Dr. Zain Haris Autism Advocate & Parent Educator, Independent Researcher
• April 3rd, 2026
• autism in girls, cognitive engagement, emotional regulation, identity development, masking, social recognition, special interests, Spring 2026 Issue, underdiagnosis
• 434    0

Most autistic individuals develop special interests (SIs)—deeply focused passions that go beyond typical hobbies. These interests are often characterized by intensity, prolonged engagement, and difficulty shifting attention away from the topic. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental...

When Puberty Meets Autism: The Hidden Struggles of Autistic Girls

• By: Dr. Zain Haris Autism Advocate & Parent Educator, Independent Researcher
• January 15th, 2026
• adolescence, delayed diagnosis, emotional regulation, family and school support, gender bias, girls, mental health risks, puberty, sensory sensitivities, Spring 2026 Issue
• 1760    0

Why Puberty Is a Turning Point for Autistic Girls Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental condition characterized by differences in social interaction, communication, and patterns of behavior (American Psychiatric Association, 2013). These differences often include...