What is High-functioning autism or Asperger’s Syndrome?

Leo Kanner identified the diagnosis of autism in 1944 and Hans Asperger was simultaneously identifying a population with “autistic psychopathy” in Austria. Asperger’s work did not reach the United States for 40-50 years. In the meantime, the higher end of the autism spectrum had been referred to as high functioning autism.

High functioning autism is most simply described as individuals who have the neurological difference of autism but who have average to above average ability, often as tested through intelligence tests. However, it is not really this simple. There are many individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders or Differences (ASD) who have average to above average ability, but who have such intense symptoms of autism that they are cannot function independently. There are individuals who can read at the college level, but who cannot relate to even their own families. There are individuals with such sensory sensitivities that they are limited to very few environments. There are individuals with savant skills in some areas but such weakness in their life skills that they may be more dependent than an individual who has mild to moderate mental retardation. Many of these individuals develop behaviors that are inappropriate in society. The range of difference in high functioning autism is tremendous. Many people say: High functioning does not mean easy.

Neither does the word “high” mean that we put less value on those individuals who are “low” or “middle.”  The use of these categories is to help us with identify issues and strategies to address those concerns.

Is there a Difference from High-functioning autism and Asperger Syndrome?

Asperger Syndrome is a medical label that is in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual (DSM-IV-TR) under Pervasive Developmental Disorders. Some "authorities" are convinced that Aspergers is different for High-Functioning Autism.  However, there is no consistent explanation how they differ. The book, Asperger Syndrome or High functioning Autism?, edited by leaders in the field of autism, Eric Schopler, Gary Mesibov, and Linda Kunce,  concludes that there has not been clear criteria established for distinguishing the two, Many professionals are invested in one name or another. Many parents like the Asperger terminology to differentiate their child from the more severe aspects of the autism spectrum. For practical usage, Aspergers and High-functioning autism are equivalent terms with much variation between individuals. Dr, Tony Attwood has suggested that the difference between High-functioning autism and Aspergers is in how they are spelled.  Because of the lack of support for a difference between High -functioning autism and Aspergers, many authorities are advocating the use of one broad label, Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD).

References:

• Attwood, A. (2008) The Complete Guide to Asperger Syndrome. London, Jessica Kingsley Publishers.
• DSM-IV-TR Official Site - American Psychiatric Association
• Schopler,E., Mesibov, G.B., & Kunce, L.J. (Eds) (1992). Asperger Syndrome or High-Functioning Autism? New York, Plenum Press.

Resources:

• The Asperger’s Syndrome Institute. (2004-2008). Asperger’s syndrome  characteristics.  http://www.asperger-institute.com/aspergers-syndrome-characteristics.htm
• MAAP Services. www.maapservices.org- Provides information and advice to families of more advanced  individuals with autism, pervasive developmental disorder and aspergers. 
• The Global and Regional Asperger Syndrome Partnership http://www.grasp.org/index.htm