High-Functioning Autism

A historically used term describing individuals with autism spectrum disorder who have average or above-average intellectual abilities and can communicate verbally. The term is now considered outdated by many in the autism community and clinical practice, with DSM-5 replacing distinct categories with a single autism spectrum disorder diagnosis using support level specifiers. However, the term persists in some research literature. Critics argue it creates an artificial hierarchy and minimizes the challenges faced by those labeled "high-functioning."