How Is High-Functioning Autism Diagnosed?

September 25, 2025

High-functioning autism, often referred to today as Level 1 Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), is diagnosed through careful observation, developmental history, and standardized assessments. While the term “high-functioning” isn’t officially used in medical diagnoses anymore, it generally describes individuals with autism who have strong language and intellectual skills but still face challenges in social communication and behavior.

Steps in Diagnosis:

  1. Developmental History – Doctors ask about early milestones, communication, and social behavior.

  2. Behavioral Observation – Specialists watch how a child interacts, plays, and responds to social cues.

  3. Standardized Assessments – Tools like the ADOS-2 (Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule) or questionnaires help identify patterns linked to autism.

  4. Multidisciplinary Evaluation – A team may include psychologists, speech-language pathologists, and pediatricians to rule out other conditions and confirm autism.

  5. Parent and Teacher Input – Reports from caregivers and educators give valuable insight into how the child behaves in different settings.


Early diagnosis allows families to begin interventions like Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), which can build communication, social, and daily living skills.


Looking for guidance?


At Blue Jay ABA, we provide personalized ABA therapy in North Carolina to support children across the autism spectrum. 


Contact us today to see how our ABA services can help your child thrive.


SOURCES:


https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3808966/


https://www.webmd.com/brain/autism/high-functioning-autism


https://www.healthline.com/health/high-functioning-autism


https://www.cdc.gov/autism/hcp/diagnosis/index.html


https://www.autismspeaks.org/autism-diagnostic-criteria-dsm-5

Need Assistance?

We’re Here to Help

Our expert team is ready to support your child’s development and well-being.


We are committed to offering tailored ABA therapy solutions that promote growth.

Contact us today for Professional ABA Therapy.

Get Started

Related Posts

Autistic child concentrating while assembling colorful toy pieces at a table after ABA therapy.

Why Do Kids with Autism Line Up Toys?

December 19, 2025
Discover why children with autism line up toys, what this behavior may indicate, and how it relates to development, routines, and sensory processing needs.
Autistic child holding his ears with a distressed expression, sitting near colorful Easter eggs.

What Happens if ABA Therapy Is Stopped Too Early?

December 19, 2025
Learn the risks of stopping ABA therapy too early, how early termination impacts progress, and why consistent therapy is crucial for lasting improvements.
Autistic child giving thumbs up while building with colorful blocks on a table after ABA therapy.

Which Personality Type Is Most Likely to Be Autistic?

December 19, 2025
Explore the connection between personality types and autism, and understand how certain traits may relate to autism spectrum disorder and its characteristics.