Autism, Aspergers, High & Low Functioning - What Does It Mean?

The term 'Aspergers' took its name from the scientist Asperger. The term used to refer to autistic people that showed excellent intelligence. As autism is a communication difference and is not related to intelligence combined with debate around Asperger's alleged affiliations the term is no longer used. For those that were not identified as Aspergers it was assumed that the individual must have limited intelligence.

High / Low Functioning are terms that have been used to describe how much impact autism has on the person’s daily living and learning abilities. High functioning referring to high level of independence and “normal” life, whereas low functioning typically means profound learning difficulties and needs. For the person being described these terms are not affirming and should be avoided. Instead, adjustments need to be implemented to help the individual access what they need to access.

By having the umbrella term ‘autism’ it includes all the autistic population and tries to move away from the stereotypes and misconceptions of intelligence being linked with autism.