2023-04-26 00:30:13
High-functioning autism can be confused with other conditions such as Asperger syndrome, obsessive-compulsive disorder, or attention deficit disorder. For what reason? Here we explain it to you.
“High-functioning autism” is an informal term that is not described in official psychiatric manuals. This concept refers to those cases in which the symptoms are milder.
That is, they are people who have an autism spectrum disorder, but have a higher level of cognitive and behavioral functioning, so the impact on daily life is less. The problem is that it is usually underdiagnosed, which makes its treatment difficult. How to detect it? We tell you everything about it.
What are autism spectrum disorders?
Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are a series of conditions that affect development. They can cause social, behavioral and communication problems.
In the past, the pathologies that make up this spectrum were diagnosed as separate entities. However, this term is currently used to encompass them. As an article from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention explains, the following are included:
- Autism.
- Pervasive developmental disorder not otherwise specified.
- Asperger’s syndrome.
All these conditions also affect the interests and motivation of the sufferer. According to a post on USA Today, 1 in 35 children have an autism spectrum disorder. However, this is divided into several levels according to its severity.
- At level 1 those people who present mild symptoms are classified. It includes high-functioning autism, as we will explain later.
- Level 2 refers to those cases that require more support and therapies.
- Finally, level 3 is reserved for the most severe cases. Patients may require attendants at all times.
high functioning autism
High-functioning autism is not considered an entity within autism spectrum disorder. Neither the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-V) nor the International Classification of Diseases (ICD-10) consider it a subcategory. Even so, some scientists do consider it different.
That is to say, it has the same characteristics as other spectrum disorders, but its symptoms are milder. As we have indicated in the previous section, we could include it within level 1. In addition, the IQ is usually similar to that of the rest of the population or slightly higher.
There are those who confuse it with Asperger syndrome; however, in the latter case there are more difficulties with respect to non-verbal skills, visual memory and the perception of emotions. In contrast, children with high-functioning autism have better motor coordination.
The biggest difference between the two lies in language development.
In this type of autism there is a significant delay in the acquisition of speech. In addition, there is a lack of vocabulary, a tendency to stammer and repeat phrases or expressions, and difficulty understanding certain content.
Symptoms of high-functioning autism
Despite being a mild form of autism, it presents the same typical symptoms of this disorder. For example, patients have trouble making eye contact with other people.
On the other hand, as detailed in an article published in Indiana Institute on Disability and Community, communication skills are altered. For this reason, it is difficult for them to understand rhetorical ways of speaking —such as irony or sarcasm— as well as understanding gestures.
Other relevant symptoms include the following:
- Difficulties in establishing friendships or love relationships. In general, they tend to be suspicious of strangers.
- They have trouble understanding long sentences or responding appropriately in conversations. Even so, they tend to have more communication skills than in other pathologies.
- Regarding school or work performance, the impact is highly variable. Some people with this type of autism excel at activities that attract their attention. However, they may also be unable to concentrate.
- They have a tendency to depression, anxiety and stress. This is because there is a great lack of empathy towards them and they feel misunderstood. It is common for them to have explosive behaviors and a very irritable character.
How is the degree of autism diagnosed?
The diagnosis of any autism spectrum disorder can be complex. High-functioning autism is often overlooked or confused with another disorder. In fact, in some cases, this is not confirmed until adulthood.
The main problem is that -on numerous occasions- these children are diagnosed and treated for other diseases. For example, as if they had obsessive-compulsive disorder or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.
Anyway, it is normal for any of the spectrum disorders to be identified in the first years of life. Children with autism often have problems with verbal development, communication skills, and social interactions.
For this reason, around 18 months of age, signs that can point to this problem already appear. For example, abnormal behaviors are observed when playing. They are infants who also tend to have limited expression or lack of attachment to other people.
This way, Diagnosis is usually made by observation. You can also use some specific tests (such as the M-CHAT test, which the parents answer) or other tools.
What are the available treatments?
There are numerous treatments available for autism spectrum disorders. Treatment must be completely individualized. depending on the most characteristic problems of each patient.
In addition, it must be carried out by a multidisciplinary team. The main thing is that there is good psychological support, both for the person affected and for the family.
- Therapies aimed at improving speech are usually performed. Although this aspect is not usually affected as much, it can serve to improve the ability to start a conversation.
- Occupational therapy is another of the fundamental pillars of treatment. It seeks to improve motor coordination and psychomotor skills.
- Physiotherapy sessions are recommended to improve movement and balance.
- It may be necessary to resort to the use of medications. Especially if therapy or training fails to control certain symptoms. Some frequently used are antipsychotics, antidepressants and anxiolytics.
People with high-functioning autism can also be sensitive to stimuli. For example, to very intense lights, loud noises or even to certain tactile sensations. Therefore, another part of the treatment seeks to train to control or endure these sensations.
High-functioning autism is not considered a stand-alone disorder
In summary, it must be remembered that currently high-functioning autism it is not described as an entity by itself. It is a term used to refer to mild cases of autism.
However, the symptoms are similar, although limited. The main problem lies in the tendency to confuse this disorder with other conditions. This leads to a large number of these patients being treated inadequately.
Also, it is important to try to understand that these people face numerous difficulties in their daily lives. That’s why, we must try to be understanding and avoid behaviors of marginalization.
You might be interested…
#Highfunctioning #autism #characteristics #symptoms