High-functioning autism (HFA) is often used to describe individuals who can manage their daily activities without much assistance. This means they can read, write, and speak.
High-functioning individuals can manage themselves at school or work. They can even “mask” symptoms and mimic what others are doing. Essentially, they can live independently but may struggle with understanding social cues.
It should be noted that HFA is not an official diagnosis and doesn’t have an agreed-upon definition.
While talking about high-functioning autism, we should mention Asperger’s syndrome. The traits covered under it overlap with those commonly associated with “high-functioning” autism.
However, we should emphasise that Asperger’s syndrome is no longer considered a spectrum disorder. We’ll discuss why a bit later. For now, let’s focus on
Symptoms of High-Functioning Autism
There are no obvious symptoms of high-functioning autism, but certain traits that you can notice when you know what you’re looking for.
Signs of High-Functioning Autism in Children
We must reiterate that high-functioning autism doesn’t have a proper definition, so its signs are not properly defined for children. However, certain signs are usually observed in high-functioning children.
- A delay in speech development
- Uncomfortable in social situations
- Sticking to a routine and difficulty with changes
- Difficulty making new friends
- Intense interest in specific topics
- Average or above-average intelligence
Symptoms of High-Functioning Autism in Adults
HFA continues into adulthood. And although high-functioning adults can develop specific coping mechanisms, certain symptoms are still observable.
- Uncomfortable with prolonged eye contact
- Struggle to understand social cues
- Being anxious in social settings (especially with strangers)
- Sticking to a strict routine and avoiding changes as much as possible
- Like to listen and observe rather than speak.
How Do I know if I’m Slightly Autistic?
Autism is a spectrum disorder, so you may exhibit some of the mentioned symptoms. But that doesn’t confirm you have autism.
Similarly, you might take a self-assessment screening test to confirm if your symptoms indicate autism. While these tests are good for preliminary screening, they are not a complete diagnosis. For that, you need to consult certified professionals.
Autism Detect has some of the most experienced and certified experts to provide a complete diagnosis and guide you with a tailored treatment plan (if needed).
Challenges of High-Functioning Autism
High-functioning autism comes with its own set of challenges that individuals face every single day.
Social Interaction Challenges
Individuals with HFA struggle with reading social cues and body language. This makes them appear awkward, leading to strained social interactions.
This doesn’t mean a person with HFA cannot work with others. We need to address this stereotype because 34% of employers said that they thought an autistic person would be unlikely to fit into their team, which adversely affects the job prospects of any autistic person, high-functioning or not.
Emotional Management Issues
People with HFA have difficulty regulating their emotions. They can have outbursts and can shut down when emotionally overwhelmed.
Sensory Overload
Loud noises, crowded places, strong smells, and other stimuli can be taxing for people with HFA, leading to discomfort and struggling to focus.
Mental Health Concerns
Anxiety and other mental issues are more common in people with HFA than neurotypical people. This could be due to a lack of support and continuous internal struggles.
Does high-functioning autism get worse with age?
High-functioning autism doesn’t necessarily get worse with age, but the symptoms might change over time. The same goes for challenges; specific struggles may lessen while others may become more difficult to manage.
Behavioural therapy and coaching can help manage these challenges better.
Strengths of High-Functioning Autism
While there are challenges associated with HFA, it also has its strengths.
Exceptional Focus
People with HFA can hyper-concentrate on their interests, which gives them an edge in their chosen field.
Integrity and Honesty
High-functioning individuals tend to be honest and have a lot of integrity. They usually avoid judging others and are non-manipulative.
Highly Reliable
Because they can stay focused, they are able to follow through with commitments and are very dependable.
How Do High-Functioning Autistic Adults Act?
High-functioning adults show a range of traits at work and in a personal capacity.
At Work
They can hyperfocus and excel at specific tasks that they find interesting. They are good at creative tasks that require attention and precision.
While their communication with the team may seem limited, they can manage tasks with the team when their colleagues reciprocate.
In Relationships
They are loyal and devoted. Once trust is established, it is very hard for them to break it, making them extremely loyal and devoted.
However, they may need direct communication to avoid confusion, as subtle hints might be missed.
And yes, autistic people feel intense love, but they express it differently. Their loyalty, honesty, and other acts are ways of showing that love.
How to Manage High-Functioning Autism
One thing has to be made clear: autism isn’t a disease, but it can be managed better by understanding it and finding strategies that help HFA individuals function efficiently.
Goals that an individual with high-functioning autism might want to achieve include:
- More self-control and managing emotions.
- Building flexibility and reducing anxiety.
- Better communication and understanding of non-verbal cues.
Child Coaching and Therapy
For children, specifically designed sessions to improve social and communication skills. Support for emotional and sensory regulations.
Adult Coaching and Therapy
For adults, it’s important to have support for balancing work, relationships, and everything in between. Personalised tips and counselling to improve social interactions.
Autism Detect offers complete After-Care Services. You can discuss your specific challenges with our experts for a tailored management plan.
Asperger’s Syndrome and High-Functioning Autism
We promised earlier to discuss why Asperger’s syndrome is no longer a recognized diagnosis, but first, let’s share some history.
Asperger’s syndrome was named after an Austrian paediatrician, Hans Asperger. In 1944, he observed that some children were highly intelligent but socially awkward. In 1981, British psychiatrist Lorna Wing clubbed these observations and traits into a formal diagnosis named Asperger’s syndrome. This was added to the DSM-IV in 1994 as an official diagnosis.
Asperger’s syndrome was retired in 2013 in the DSM-5. One reason for this was that Asperger’s syndrome was considered a different condition by many, even though it falls under the autism spectrum.
Now, you might hear Asperger’s syndrome as a diagnosis for people who were diagnosed before the latest DSM edition. Instead of Asperger’s, low-support autism is usually known as high-functioning autism. But unlike Asperger’s, HFA doesn’t have a proper definition.
Conclusion
People are more aware of autism now, including high-functioning autism. Stigma and stereotypes associated with Autism are also on the decline. So, it’s not wrong to say we’re moving in the right direction.
If you’re noticing signs of HFA in yourself or someone close to you, just know that help is available. Because even with low-support autism, i.e. HFA, some support may be needed. This support can be in the form of therapy, counselling, or even an ear to listen.
