Peer Interactions of School-Aged Girls on the Autism Spectrum: A Scoping Review

Abstract

Although research on the experiences of females on the autism spectrum is still developing, it is becoming increasingly apparent that their experiences are not comparable to their male counterparts. This scoping review aimed to collate research related to the peer interaction experiences of school-aged girls on the autism spectrum from their perspective. A database and journal search (2010–2020) found 21 studies. Key findings indicated that although school-aged girls on the autism spectrum generally desired friendship, they faced diverse peer interaction difficulties, including making and maintaining friendships, peer victimisation, and rejection. Given these challenges, appropriate peer interaction supports and further research into the complexities of their peer interaction experience is needed.