Exploring the effect of gender and age on stress and emotional distress in adults with autism spectrum disorder

One hundred nine people with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) completed the Depression Anxiety Stress Scales (DASS), and
Stress Survey Schedule (SSS). Compared with Australian norms for DASS depression, anxiety, and stress, both males and
females with ASD showed elevated scores. Females aged 25 to 44 years scored significantly higher on the DASS depression
subscale than same aged males and younger males and females. Significant gender and age differences were evident on
SSS subscales. In comparison with males, females were more stressed on Pleasant Events, Sensory/Personal Contact, and
Social and Environmental subscales, and adult females in particular were more stressed on items around Change and Social
Threats and Anticipation/Uncertainty. Young people were less stressed on seven of the eight SSS subscales than older
people. It appears that emotional vulnerability in people with ASD varies according to gender and age, with adult females
at particular risk.