Co-occurrence of complex emotional needs, autism spectrum disorder and gender diversity: a service audit

Purpose Gender identity is an integral part of individuals’ self-conceptualisation. This paper aims to explore the correlation of co-occurring complex emotional needs (CEN; consistent with a diagnosis of personality disorder), autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and gender diversity in a sample of adult community service-users referred to a CEN team. Design/methodology/approach A 52-month retrospective audit was conducted where all participants met diagnostic threshold for a CEN diagnosis, focusing on presence of ASD and gender identity. Additional comorbidities are reported. Findings In total, 553 referrals were assessed, a small number of whom identified as gender diverse (n = 23, 4.2%). A modest, significant correlation is reported between gender identity and ASD. Suggestions for potential aetiological considerations are briefly given, though further research on a larger scale should be undertaken to explore whether this correlation persists, and if so, potential factors leading to this. Originality/value The authors understand that this is the first study of its kind to explore this area of overlap of CEN, ASD and gender identity extending this past the male–female binary.