The Misconceptions Surrounding High-Functioning Autism

🧩Autism is a spectrum, and functioning labels oversimplify the diverse experiences of individuals on the spectrum.

🌈High-functioning autism doesn't mean fewer struggles or support needs; it just means the individual may have different strengths and areas of difficulty.

🔍Masking is common among individuals with high-functioning autism, where they hide their struggles to blend in with society.

🧘‍♀️Autistic individuals may have fluctuating levels of functioning, experiencing both high-functioning and low-functioning periods.

🌊Validating the struggles of individuals with high-functioning autism is essential, as their support needs are still significant.

What is the difference between high-functioning and low-functioning autism?

—The terms 'high-functioning' and 'low-functioning' are functioning labels used to categorize individuals on the autism spectrum. High-functioning autism refers to those who have average or above-average intelligence and may have fewer support needs. Low-functioning autism refers to individuals who require significant support in their daily lives. However, these labels are oversimplifications and do not capture the full range of abilities and struggles of individuals with autism.

Is high-functioning autism less severe than low-functioning autism?

—Severity is not an appropriate way to compare high-functioning and low-functioning autism. Each person's experience with autism is unique, and their strengths and difficulties may vary. It is essential to understand that autism is a spectrum, and functioning labels do not reflect the full complexities of autism.

Why do some individuals with high-functioning autism hide their struggles?

—Many individuals with high-functioning autism engage in masking, where they hide their struggles and autism traits to fit into society. This masking can be mentally exhausting and can lead to burnout. It is important to provide support and understanding to individuals with high-functioning autism, even if their struggles are not immediately visible.

Can an individual with high-functioning autism experience low-functioning periods?

—Yes, individuals with high-functioning autism can experience both high-functioning and low-functioning periods. Autism is a complex neurodevelopmental disorder that may manifest differently in different situations or environments. It is crucial to recognize that functioning levels can fluctuate and that support needs may change over time.

How can we support individuals with high-functioning autism?

—Supporting individuals with high-functioning autism involves creating an inclusive and understanding environment. By acknowledging their struggles, validating their experiences, and providing appropriate support, we can help individuals with high-functioning autism thrive. It is important to educate ourselves, promote acceptance, and advocate for accommodations that can enable their success in various areas of life.

00:00In this video, Olivia, a 25-year-old woman diagnosed with autism, discusses the misconceptions surrounding high-functioning autism.

02:19Autism is a diverse spectrum, and functioning labels such as high-functioning and low-functioning oversimplify the experiences of individuals on the spectrum.

03:24Olivia explains that autism is like an iceberg, with the visible part representing her ability to communicate and seem 'normal,' while the struggles and difficulties remain hidden beneath the surface.

04:48She discusses the misconceptions surrounding high-functioning autism, where people assume that having lower support needs means the struggles are less significant.

05:59Olivia emphasizes that each individual's experience with autism is unique, and functioning levels can vary. It is important to validate the struggles of individuals with high-functioning autism.

07:10She urges viewers not to use functioning labels, as they can invalidate the experiences and struggles of individuals on the autism spectrum.