Introduction
Autism is a developmental disorder that can be classified based on severity. Individuals with this disorder fall under the category of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Some individuals affected by autism may exhibit severe symptoms, whereas others may show only mild symptoms. High-functioning autism is a term used for those affected by autism, but they can be independent in speaking, reading, etc.
What Is High-Functioning Autism?
High-function autism (HFA) is not considered a medical diagnosis, but this term is informal to those who are affected by autism. These individuals can speak, read, write, and manage life skills without help. Those affected by high-functioning autism exhibit milder forms of autism. The official diagnostic term for high-functioning autism is ASD level 1.
According to DSM IV, ASD was diagnosed based on persistent deficits in three areas of social communication and interaction and two of four types of restricted, repetitive behaviors. In 2013, the DSM V was released. According to DSM V, the diagnosis of ASD replaced the previous grouping of autistic disorders, Asperger’s disorder, and pervasive developmental disorder.
An individual with Asperger’s disorder is now thought to have high-functioning autism. It has been estimated that 1 % of people are affected by ASD in the United Kingdom. The prediction of the ratio of autism to HFA is thought to be 16:1. HFA is found to be more common among boys than girls.
What Are the Levels of ASD?
ASD can be divided into three levels based on the support required.
These include,
Level 1: Individuals classified under this category may require minimal support, and their symptoms do not interfere much with their school, work, or relationships. This level is to be referred to as high-functioning autism or Asperger’s Syndrome.
Level 2: Individuals falling into this group require outside support daily. Outside support includes speech therapy and social skill training.
Level 3: Individuals in this level require substantial support daily. Support required includes full-time aides and intensive therapy.
What Are the Causes of High-Functioning Autism?
The exact cause of ASD is not known. Genetics and environmental factors may influence the development of the brain. The research is still ongoing regarding the cause of HFA.
What Are the Symptoms of High-Functioning Autism?
The symptoms of HFA may vary from one to another, depending on the support required.
The signs and symptoms of autism, the degree of which may vary from one to another. The signs and symptoms in children and adults also vary.
Symptoms of HFA among children include,
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They exhibit delayed speech.
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They need help with social interactions.
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These children look very mature and intelligent.
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They avoid eye contact.
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They need help adapting to new changes.
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They need help making friends and maintaining social contacts.
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They tend to speak over others and interrupt.
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They can become obsessive about their hobbies and interests.
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They find it difficult to share with others and are considered shy.
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They may show toe walking or other types of movements.
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They tend to speak in a monotone voice or high-pitched tones.
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These show repetitive actions and self-stimulating behaviors.
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They exhibit sensitivity to different textures of foods.
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They tend to get sensitive to bright lights and loud noises.
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They face difficulty with motor actions like writing with pencils or pens.
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They have excellent memory and resist touch.
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They need to be made aware of personal space.
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They need to show more interest in activities and conversations around them.
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They show an inability to perceive danger.
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They exhibit an inability to self-regulate their emotions when overstimulated.
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They are uncomfortable when confused by sarcasm, jokes, or small talk.
Symptoms among adults with HFA include,
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They find difficulty making eye contact.
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They find difficulty identifying and understanding body language and social cues.
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They may exhibit anxiety and mood disorders.
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They need help with verbal communication and understanding jokes and sarcasm.
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They need help in making decisions.
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They show adherence to strict routines.
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They can notice sensory inputs like smell and sound that are not noticed by others.
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They need help with two-way communication.
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They can hyperfocus on work or specific interests.
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They prefer to listen and observe rather than speak and interact with others.
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They appear rude and blunt.
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They are found to be highly sensitive.
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They have limited interest.
Another common thing with ASD among both children and adults is the presence of disorders like anxiety, depression, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and bipolar disorder. Some individuals affected by HFA may face mild challenges, whereas others may face symptoms as if it becomes difficult for them to socialize or work without help.
How to Diagnose High-Functioning Autism?
There are no particular tests available for diagnosing HFA or ASD. The child will be watched regarding their development and behaviors before an official diagnosis. A doctor can diagnose ASD or HFA in an 18-month-old child. The doctor can make a formal diagnosis once the child reaches 2 years of age.
There are three parts to the diagnosis of HFA or ASD.
These include,
Developmental Monitoring: In this stage, the parents and doctor observe a child's development and growth. They check for signs and skills for their age. The doctor may interact with the child and parents to learn about the child.
Developmental Screening: In this stage, the child‘s growth and development are observed with a deeper look. Experts suggest screening children at 9 months, 18 months, and 30 months. They also suggest getting specific ASD screenings at 18 months and 24 months.
Apart from these screenings, other screenings may be suggested by the doctors at other times. These help focus on the child’s movement, thinking skills, behaviors, emotions, and language.
Developmental Diagnosis: In this stage, the doctor provides a child with a test that helps to learn about ASD or HFA. Then, they consult a specialist for their opinion. The specialist may give a test to the child, ask about the child's parents, or give a questionnaire to know the strengths and weaknesses. These results help them figure out the developmental issue with the child.
The diagnosis of adults is slightly different from that of children.
These include,
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First and foremost, the expert has to be found.
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The doctor may ask about the present. They ask questions regarding how the person interacts with others and whether any repetitive behavior or struggle is present.
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They may ask about the childhood of that person. They may talk to one of the parents or siblings about this aspect.
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A screening tool called the Autism-Spectrum Quotient (AQ) may be used for screening. Simon Baron-Cohen, a psychology professor at the University of Cambridge, England, published this. This test is not considered an official one.
Many individuals with HFA or ASD may lead a normal life, but some may face specific challenges.
What Is the Treatment or Support for High-Functioning Autism?
The treatment depends on the degree of the condition or where the autistic person falls on the spectrum. This helps the person benefit from the treatment.
These include
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Therapy that helps the person understand and interact with others.
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Therapy helps a person with sensory sensitivities and helps in dealing with anxiety and depression.
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At school and work, individuals with HFA should be provided support so that they benefit.
Since HFA is an autism that falls under a spectrum, each affected person experiences it differently.
Conclusion
High-functioning autism falls under the autism spectrum. Since it affects children, it is difficult to identify. It shows behavioral changes that can be identified only if there is some knowledge about autism. Hence, knowing about the HFA, its causes, symptoms, and management becomes important. Knowing helps identify the problem at the earliest, and this, in turn, provides an effective treatment. This helps an affected person understand themselves and have control over their lives.
