Understanding the Differences between High Functioning Autism / Asperger’s Syndrome and Introversion

Autism and introversion, while both characterized by social challenges, are distinct conditions. An introverted person who does not have autism does not meet the diagnostic criteria for autism. Autism involves specific criteria related to social interaction, repetitive behavior, coping with change, and language and communication issues.

The Diagnostic Criteria for Autism

Autism is defined by a set of specific criteria that involve social interaction, adherence to social rules, repetitive behaviors, and challenges in dealing with change. Prior to recent changes, these criteria also included difficulties in language and communication. The decision to drop the language requirement has led to more individuals with milder autism qualifying for the diagnosis, a change that some argue may not be beneficial. This drop in the diagnosis criteria has led to overlooking many cognitive and language difficulties that people with milder autism face, potentially reducing support for those with more significant language issues.

Autism and Cognitive Function

It is important to note that not all autistic individuals are introverted, and not all continue to be introverted throughout their lives. Additionally, the term "high functioning" is a descriptive term rather than an official diagnostic category.

The Term 'High Functioning' in Autism

There has never been an actual diagnosis called 'high functioning autism.' The term "high functioning" is often used by individuals or healthcare providers to describe individuals who can perform daily activities independently and can communicate to some extent through speech. It is not related to intellectual abilities or genius.

High Functioning does not refer to extraordinary intelligence or superior cognitive abilities. Instead, it denotes the ability to perform daily activities with minimal assistance and the ability to communicate using speech to some extent.

The term was initially used to differentiate between individuals who are non-verbal, have severe symptoms, and may have Intellectual Disability from those who do not. Historically, it was used in various disorders, including autism and Intellectual Disability.

Levels of Support for Autism

In recent years, a more structured approach has been adopted to describe the needs of individuals with autism. The concept of 'levels of support' has been introduced, with three categories: 1. Needs Support, 2. Needs Substantial Support, and 3. Needs Very Substantial Support. Each level is defined online, providing clear examples of what support each level might entail.

Healthcare providers may choose to specify a level of support alongside the diagnosis, or they may prefer to wait until they have gathered more information about the individual's specific needs. In some cases, the level of support becomes evident early on, making it appropriate to specify it early.

Conclusion

Understanding the differences between high functioning autism and introversion is crucial for providing appropriate support and interventions. While both conditions present unique challenges, they require different approaches to diagnosis and support. By recognizing and understanding the specific needs and characteristics of each condition, we can better serve individuals with autism and help them achieve their full potential.

Keywords

autism high functioning introversion

References

[1] American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (5th ed.).

[2] National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. (n.d.). Asperger Syndrome Fact Sheet.

[3] Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2021). Data and Statistics on Autism Spectrum Disorder.