What’s the difference between high-functioning autism and Asperger’s?

Parents, educators, and professionals often ask about the difference between high-functioning autism and Asperger’s. While the terms are sometimes used interchangeably, they have distinct histories and meanings.

High-functioning autism generally refers to individuals on the autism spectrum who have average or above-average intelligence but still face challenges with social communication, sensory sensitivities, and behavioral regulation. Asperger’s, once considered a separate diagnosis, was characterized by strong language development and cognitive skills but significant difficulties in social interaction and restricted interests.

In 2013, the DSM-5 reclassified Asperger’s under the broader Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) category. Today, professionals use ASD to describe a wide range of abilities and challenges, rather than separating Asperger’s from other forms of autism. The key difference lies in how these terms were historically defined, but both highlight the importance of individualized support.

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SOURCE:

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32491480/

https://www.psychiatry.org/File%20Library/Psychiatrists/Practice/DSM/APA_DSM_Changes_from_DSM-IV-TR_-to_DSM-5.pdf

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Asperger_syndrome

https://livingautism.com/dsm-5-proposed-changes-means-lives-affected-autism-aspergers-syndrome/

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1750946711000171