Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is widely misunderstood and challenging to diagnose. However, spotting the signs early and getting professional support can provide your son with the resources he needs to help him thrive. The signs of autism in teen boys may look different than those in teen girls, adults, or younger children.

The basics of autism

ASD is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects communication, behavior, and social interaction. While it can be diagnosed at any age, symptoms often become more apparent during adolescence, a time of significant social and emotional development.

Teens with autism often have a tough time with social interaction and communication, something especially challenging when they’re working on figuring out who they are. Sensory sensitivities and trouble reading social cues contribute to these communication challenges, which can cause anxiety, depression, and intense anger.

How do autistic boys behave?

While autism can affect individuals of any gender, research suggests that symptoms often present differently in boys than in girls. Boys are more likely to show external behaviors such as repetitive movements, intense focus on specific topics, and difficulties with social interaction. Girls, on the other hand, may be more likely to develop “masking” strategies that make their symptoms less noticeable.

Were there early signs that your child is on the spectrum?

Autism can be subtle in childhood and become more pronounced during the teenage years. For some boys, there may be early developmental markers worth noting, such as delays in speech, trouble with pretend play, or challenges in hitting motor milestones like crawling or walking. Even if these signs weren’t flagged in early childhood, they can offer clues when looking at a broader picture during adolescence.

Common autism symptoms in teens

Is your teen’s behavior part of typical adolescent development or something more? While every teen is different, certain behaviors stand out as potential signs of autism and are worth exploring further.

• Social challenges: Difficulty making eye contact, understanding nonverbal cues, and maintaining friendships
• Communication challenges: Delayed speech and language development, difficulty expressing emotions or thoughts effectively
• Trouble with motor skills: Trouble with handwriting, balance, or fine motor coordination
• Sensory sensitivities: Covering their ears in loud environments, avoiding certain fabrics or tags in clothing, or being highly selective about foods based on smell, taste, or texture
• Repetitive behaviors: Repeating words or phrases, rigid adherence to routines or rituals, intense fixation on specific interests or objects
• Emotional regulation issues: Intense emotional reactions, including rage, outbursts, or meltdowns often triggered by stress, transitions, or sensory overload
• Difficulty with flexibility: Strong resistance to changes in routine, unexpected events, or new environments, which can cause anxiety or shutdown behaviors

It’s important to remember that autism occurs on a spectrum. Symptoms and behaviors vary significantly from person to person, regardless of gender. So, while these are common symptoms in boys, they may also be present in girls or non-binary teens.

How do I know if my son has autism?

These signs are good indicators that your son might be on the spectrum. If nothing else, you should schedule an evaluation to find out what is going on. A professional will be able to determine if your son has autism.

Early intervention can significantly improve long-term outcomes for individuals with ASD. Your teen’s pediatrician will be able to talk to you about your concerns and make appropriate referrals to any specialists, such as a child psychiatrist or developmental pediatrician. They may also recommend an evaluation by a speech-language pathologist, occupational therapist, or psychologist.

Why intervention is so important

Intervention through specialized neurodevelopmental treatment programs can provide your son with the tools and support he needs to navigate challenges and develop life skills. These programs often incorporate a variety of evidence-based approaches, such as:

• Social skills training: Learning how to read nonverbal cues, initiate and maintain conversations, and build friendships
• Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT): Identifying and changing negative thought patterns and behaviors that may contribute to social or emotional difficulties
• Speech-language therapy: Improving communication skills through targeted techniques and strategies
• Occupational therapy: Addressing sensory sensitivities and developing coping strategies for sensory overload

Many people living with ASD also have co-occurring conditions, such as anxiety or depression. Without proper support and treatment, these conditions can significantly impact your teen’s ability to thrive. Treatment that addresses both ASD symptoms and co-occurring conditions can greatly improve your son’s overall quality of life.

Contact Family First when you need help

We understand the challenges that come with raising a teen on the autism spectrum, and we’re here to help. That’s why we created The Nest, a specialized residential program designed just for neurodivergent boys, including those with autism, ADHD, and other learning or sensory differences.

The Nest program provides a supportive and developmentally attuned environment where your son can build confidence, strengthen social and emotional skills, and learn how to thrive in a world not always designed for him. With small program sizes, a 3:1 staff-to-client ratio, and expert clinical specialists trained in neurodiversity-affirming care, your teen will receive personalized treatment that truly meets him where he is.

Call 888.904.5947 or contact Family First Adolescent Services online to find out if The Nest is right for your teen.