Why Is "High Functioning Autism" No Longer Used?

November 21, 2025

The term "high-functioning autism" has been largely phased out by the autism community and professionals. While it was once used to describe individuals with autism who had fewer challenges with speech and intellectual disabilities, it is now recognized as an oversimplification of the autism spectrum.


  • Lack of Precision: The term "high-functioning" implies a clear-cut distinction between individuals with autism, but autism is complex and varies greatly between individuals. Some people may excel in certain areas while struggling in others, making it difficult to categorize them as either high or low functioning.


  • Focus on Strengths and Needs: Rather than labeling, experts now emphasize understanding each person’s unique strengths, challenges, and support needs. A person with autism may excel in specific areas but still need assistance with daily living skills, communication, or sensory sensitivities.

  • Promoting Inclusion: Moving away from labels helps promote a more inclusive, person-centered approach to autism, where the focus is on support, growth, and individualized care.

At Achieve Behavioral Therapy, we focus on personalized ABA therapy in New Jersey and North Carolina that addresses each individual's unique needs and promotes their strengths.


Ready to learn more about how we can help? Contact us today!



SOURCE:


https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK525976/


https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/autism/what-is-autism-spectrum-disorder


https://www.webmd.com/brain/autism/high-functioning-autism


https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/High-functioning_autism


https://www.healthline.com/health/high-functioning-autism

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