How Is High-Functioning Autism Diagnosed?

High-functioning autism (now typically referred to as Autism Spectrum Disorder without intellectual impairment) is diagnosed through a detailed developmental and behavioral evaluation. While the term “high-functioning” isn’t used clinically anymore, it usually describes individuals with strong language and cognitive skills who still experience social or sensory challenges.

Diagnosis often includes:

• Developmental history: Parents share milestones, behaviors, and concerns.
  
  
• Behavioral observation: Specialists evaluate social interaction, communication, and play.
  
  
• Standardized screening tools: Such as the ADOS-2 or M-CHAT.
  
  
• Parent interviews & questionnaires: To understand behavior across settings.
  
  
• Speech & occupational assessments: When needed to rule out other conditions.
  
  

Because children with high-functioning autism may speak well and perform well academically, signs can be subtle like difficulty with social cues, rigidity with routines, sensory sensitivities, or intense interests. Early identification helps children access support sooner.

At Milestone Achievements, we support families through ABA therapy in Georgia with compassionate, individualized ABA therapy that builds communication, social, and independence skills.

‍

Wondering if your child might be on the spectrum? Contact us today!

‍

SOURCE: 

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

https://www.reddit.com/r/autism/comments/1dw1uni/what_are_signs_of_high_functioning_autism/

https://www.reddit.com/r/autism/comments/1dw1uni/what_are_signs_of_high_functioning_autism/

https://www.quora.com/If-an-adult-is-on-the-high-functioning-end-of-the-autism-spectrum-how-is-it-diagnosed

https://www.cdc.gov/autism/hcp/diagnosis/index.html