She was diagnosed with autism at 33 -- decades after the abuse she's now speaking about publicly, in hopes it helps other families recognize the same vulnerability in their own children.
A Difficult Childhood
Christine McGuinness, 34, a model and television personality, has said she was sexually abused between the ages of 9 and 11, and raped as a teenager. In a documentary about autism, she described the trauma as leaving her feeling suicidal at times during that period of her life.
A Later Diagnosis
McGuinness was diagnosed with autism at 33, and has said the diagnosis helped her understand factors that may have made her more vulnerable to abuse as a child. Research has found elevated rates of sexual violence reported among autistic women; a 2022 online survey cited by the BBC found nearly 90% of autistic women respondents reported experiencing sexual violence.
Why Autistic Girls May Be More Vulnerable
Dr. Sarah Lister Book, clinical director at the National Autistic Society, has described the prevalence of abuse among autistic women and girls as a serious concern. Rosie Creer, clinical director of the charity Respond, has pointed to several contributing factors, including exclusion from peer friendship groups during development, communication difficulties, a strong desire to please others, and inadequate education around consent.
Advocating for Change
McGuinness has said she wants better education and awareness for autistic girls specifically around understanding consent, noting that a desire to conform and avoid conflict can make them more susceptible to coercion. She shares four children with her estranged husband, Paddy McGuinness, all of whom are autistic, and has said she worries about their vulnerability as they grow older.
FAQ
When was Christine McGuinness abused?
She has said the abuse occurred between ages 9 and 11, with a rape occurring later in her teenage years.
Why is she connecting her experience to autism?
She was diagnosed with autism as an adult and has said understanding the diagnosis helped her recognize factors that may have made her more vulnerable to abuse.
What is she advocating for now?
Better education and awareness for autistic girls and their families around consent and abuse prevention.
This story involves discussion of suicidal thoughts. If you or someone you know is struggling, the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is available by call or text at 988.