High-Functioning Autism: Understanding Signs, Diagnosis, and Support
A comprehensive guide to high-functioning autism, including how it relates to Asperger's syndrome and what support options are available.
"High-functioning autism" is a common term. It is not a formal diagnosis. It describes people on the spectrum who have average intelligence and can handle daily tasks.
Clinical Perspective: Beyond Labels
"Labels like 'high-functioning' can be misleading. A person might seem fine but struggle inside. Anxiety and sensory issues are real. At Buzz ABA, we treat the unique person."
– Jennifer Harbour, M.S., BCBA, Clinical Director at Buzz ABA
Expertise in individualized assessment and neurodiversity-affirming practice
What Is High-Functioning Autism?
HFA describes autistic people with average or high IQs. They usually speak well and can do daily tasks independently.
However, the NIMH notes they still need support.
In the DSM-5, this often aligns with Level 1 Autism. Common traits include:
- Average or high intelligence
- Good verbal skills
- Ability to attend regular schools
- Potential to live alone
- Social and sensory challenges
Note: The term "high-functioning" can hide struggles. Many prefer "Level 1 autism" or "low support needs."
HFA vs. Asperger's Syndrome
Before 2013, Asperger's syndrome was a separate diagnosis. The main difference was language development:
Asperger's Syndrome
- No language delays
- Spoke on time
- Average or high IQ
- Large vocabulary
High-Functioning Autism
- Early language delays
- Caught up later
- Average or high IQ
- Good language skills eventually
The DSM-5 combined them into Autism Spectrum Disorder (Level 1).
Signs in Children
Signs may be subtle. According to the CDC, watch for:
Social Signs
- Trouble making friends
- Missing social rules
- Preferring adults
- Taking things literally
- Unusual eye contact
Behavioral Signs
- Intense interests
- Need for routine
- Upset by change
- Sensory sensitivities
- Repetitive habits
Signs in Adults
Many adults were missed as children. Signs include:
Social Challenges
- Misses social cues
- Hard to keep friends
- Dislikes small talk
- Prefers solitude
- Seems "blunt"
Daily Life
- Good at structured work
- Dislikes office politics
- Detail-oriented
- Burnout from "masking"
Internal feelings
- Feeling "different"
- Anxiety or depression
- Sensory overwhelm
- Need for alone time
Autism in Women and Girls
Autism often looks different in girls, so they are often missed. Differences include:
- Masking: Copying social behavior to fit in
- Interests: Intense focus on typical topics
- Internal signs: Anxiety or depression instead of disruptive behavior
- Social desire: Working hard to make friends
Many women are diagnosed as adults, often after their own child is diagnosed.
Getting a Diagnosis
Professionals like developmental pediatricians and psychologists diagnose autism. They evaluate:
- Developmental history
- Current behavior
- Cognitive skills
- Social interactions
Concerned? Our free M-CHAT-R tool can help guide you. It is not a formal diagnosis.
Support Options
The right support helps people thrive.
For Children
- ABA therapy for skills
- Social skills groups
- Speech and OT
- School accommodations (IEP)
For Adults
- Counseling
- Job coaching
- Social skills training
- Support groups
Common Strengths
Autism comes with unique strengths:
Attention to Detail
Deep Focus
Logical Thinking
Honesty
Expert Knowledge
Reliability
FAQs
What is high-functioning autism?
It describes autistic people who can handle daily tasks independently. It is not a formal diagnosis.
How does it differ from Asperger's?
Asperger's meant no speech delay. High-functioning autism usually meant early speech delay. Now, both are Autism Spectrum Disorder.
What are signs in adults?
Trouble with social cues, needing routine, deep interests, and sensory issues. Many adults feel "different."
Can I get diagnosed as an adult?
Yes. Many people are diagnosed later in life. This helps them understand themselves better.
Is therapy needed?
Many benefit from therapy for anxiety, social skills, or executive function. It depends on individual needs.
Start Your Child's Journey Today
Buzz ABA provides comprehensive, evidence-based ABA therapy in Concord, Manchester, Nashua, and surrounding NH communities. Our neurodiversity-affirming approach helps children thrive.
Start Your JourneyRelated Resources
Asperger's Syndrome Guide
Understanding the history and modern perspectives on Asperger's.
Autism Levels Explained
Understand Level 1, 2, and 3 autism and what they mean for support needs.
Autism in Girls
Understanding how autism presents differently in girls and women.
Late Autism Diagnosis
Finding support after diagnosis at any age.
Autism and Anxiety
Understanding and managing anxiety in autistic individuals.
Social Skills Activities
Evidence-based activities to help build social connections.