What’s the Difference Between High-Functioning Autism and Asperger’s?

High-functioning autism is a term used to describe individuals with autism who have average or above-average intelligence but face challenges with social skills, communication, and behavior. While they may not have intellectual disabilities, they still experience difficulty navigating social situations and may need support in certain areas of life.

Asperger’s syndrome, once a separate diagnosis, is now considered part of the autism spectrum under the broader term autism spectrum disorder (ASD). People with Asperger’s often have average or above-average intelligence and no significant language delays but may struggle with social interactions and exhibit repetitive behaviors or narrow interests. Unlike those with high-functioning autism, individuals with Asperger’s may have less difficulty with language development.

In essence, the key difference lies in how the symptoms are expressed. Both conditions are on the same spectrum but vary in social communication and behavioral traits.

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SOURCES:

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

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0074775000800075

https://www.psacademyarizona.com/blog-posts/disorders-autism-spectrum

https://www.angelsense.com/blog/aspergers-vs-high-functioning-autism-understand-the-difference/

https://drsusandanielonline.com/difference-between-aspergers-and-hfa/