High-Functioning Autism

The First Step

What is High Functioning Autism?

Key examples of high-functioning autism include difficulties with social cues and communication, intense and focused "special interests," a strong need for routine and predictability, and sensory sensitivities. Other characteristics can be a tendency to take things literally, a need for strict routines, difficulty with change, and anxiety in social situations. 

Social and communication differences

  • Difficulty interpreting nonverbal cues, sarcasm, irony, or figurative language.

  • A tendency to take things literally.

  • Formal, monotone, or overly advanced speech patterns.

  • Difficulty initiating or maintaining conversations.

  • May appear blunt, rude, or overly honest in social situations.

  • Can struggle with eye contact. 

Repetitive behaviors and routines 

  • An intense focus on specific interests (sometimes called "special interests" or "hyperfocus").

  • A strong preference for routine and predictability.

  • Anxiety when routines are disrupted or changes occur.

  • Repetitive movements or behaviors, such as hand-flapping or rocking, as a way to self-regulate. 

Sensory differences

  • Being either highly sensitive or not very sensitive to stimuli like light, noise, smells, or textures.

  • May notice sensory details that others don't.

  • Can become easily overstimulated or overwhelmed by sensory input. 

Other examples

  • Difficulty with transitions between tasks or activities.

  • Can have a high level of attention to detail or perfectionism in certain areas.

  • May have difficulty with executive functions like organization and planning.

  • Often experiences anxiety, especially in social settings. 

Resources

Living with high-functioning autism can be challenging. Below are several videos to help you learn more.