Gender Non-Conforming Play and Autistic Traits in Children: A Swedish Study

A Swedish study suggests that seven-year-old girls engaging in traditionally 'boyish' play might exhibit autistic traits. Among boys, behaviors like playing with dolls were associated with peer relationship issues. The study emphasizes that non-conforming play does not necessarily predict future neurodevelopmental or behavioral problems but should be monitored over time.

A new Swedish study indicates that seven-year-old girls engaging in 'boyish' activities, such as playing with toy guns and pretending to be police officers, could be linked to autistic traits.

According to Marlene Stratmann, a PhD student in public health sciences at Karlstad University, the correlation in boys of the same age is more intricate. The research found that while both genders showed hyperactivity and inattention with 'boyish' behavior, boys playing with dolls or role-playing as princesses faced peer relationship difficulties.

Authors stress that these behaviors are not definitive indicators of future issues but underline the importance of monitoring child development over time. The study, involving 718 children from the Swedish Environmental Longitudinal, Mother and Child, Asthma and Allergy (SELMA) study, will continue with a 15-year follow-up to deepen the understanding of these associations.

(With inputs from agencies.)