What Is High-Functioning Autism?

High-functioning autism is an informal term describing individuals who meet criteria for Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) but can manage most aspects of daily life independently. While it may be normal vernacular for many, this descriptor has become too vague as we learn more about neurodivergence and the spectrum of conditions under that umbrella. Luckily, with the American Psychiatric Association’s DSM-5 in 2013, we can now formally identify autism severity on a series of levels based on the support required.

What Does Level One ASD (High-Functioning Autism) Look Like?

“High-functioning autism” was used to describe individuals with level one ASD, meaning they require little support in their day-to-day lives. These people often have strong verbal skills, average or above-average intelligence, and may excel in areas like logic, memory, or technical subjects. However, they still experience challenges in communication, sensory regulation, and executive functioning. Common traits include several markers for ASD:

• Difficulty interpreting social cues or understanding unspoken rules
• Struggles with changes in routine or transitions
• Intense focus on specific interests or hobbies
• Sensory sensitivities to light, sound, touch, or smell
• Social fatigue or anxiety, especially in group settings

In level one individuals, these traits are often masked or misinterpreted, which causes many adults to be misdiagnosed or go undiagnosed until later in life.

If You Are on the Spectrum, There’s Support for You

Think you could be on the spectrum? A diagnosis can be key to self-acceptance, community connection, and accessing appropriate support. At Adult Autism Specialist, Dr. Rebecca Martinez works with neurodivergent adults across all PSYPACT states to provide professional, respectful autism testing and evaluations tailored to those who have been overlooked or misunderstood. Schedule your consultation today and begin your path toward understanding and self-validation!