Why Autistic Girls Fly Under the Radar & Redefining Teen Social Skills | Teens Uncharted Ep. 67

If you work with or raise a neurodivergent teen, you know that finding the right support can be challenging. In Episode 67 of Teens Uncharted: the Pod, host Charity Chaffee sits down with Dr. Diane Hudson. Dr. Hudson is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) and former school psychologist who specializes in helping older autistic kids, teens, and their people. Dr. Hudson breaks down why so many autistic girls fly under the radar. These girls often receive anxiety or depression diagnoses before autism is ever considered. We also tackle the controversial history of applied behavior analysis (ABA). We explore how modern, neurodiversity-affirming approaches focus on building new behaviors rather than just extinguishing old ones to force teens into neurotypical expectations. In this episode, we cover: ✨ The Diagnostic Delay: Autistic girls frequently go misdiagnosed or undiagnosed until their teen years. They are often given mental health diagnoses before autism is even considered. ✨ Masking vs. Tools: There is a critical difference between forcing a teen to mask and teaching them actionable social skills. Teens can choose to use these social tools to confidently find their community and feel accepted. ✨ A Modern Approach: Older teens can benefit from a blend of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and behavioral science. This approach helps them connect with their own values without feeling managed or forced to change. ✨ Parenting Shifts: Parenting a neurodivergent teen requires a completely different approach from raising a neurotypical one. Parents can support their teens' therapy by practicing the skill of simply being available without putting pressure on them. ✨ Social Connections: Tailored social groups and parallel activities create low-pressure environments for girls. These spaces allow neurodivergent teens to unmask, feel understood by their peers, and realize they are not alone. Connect with Dr. Diane Hudson: Website: https://abc-pathways.com/ Instagram: @drdianehudson Free Resource (ND Friendships for Parents): https://static1.squarespace.com/static/66cf3fcdd13fbb5648e1eb64/t/6a55a03e76b945282f0d2578/1783996478296/ND+friendships+for+parents.pdf Join the Teens Uncharted Community: Clinicians: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1BHi1bkcXZ/ Parents: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1CLjk1359K/ Like our Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61575657270757 Join us in Skool: https://www.skool.com/teens-uncharted/about Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/teens.uncharted/ #AutismInGirls #Neurodiversity #TeenTherapy #AutismAcceptance #BCBA #TeensUncharted #ParentingTeens #SocialSkills #NeurodivergentTeens