Is It Time To Scrap The Autism Functioning Labels?

The “high-functioning” and “low-functioning” labels assigned to autism grew out of an attempt to describe how much an autistic person can navigate daily life independently. But are they still helpful—or even accurate?

Autistic individuals without intellectual disabilities often face significant social challenges despite having relatively independent life skills.

Despite growing awareness, many misconceptions about autism persist, leading to confusion, stigma, and barriers to understanding and acceptance.

Neurodiversity is the concept that there is natural variation in how human brains function. It refers to neurocognitive differences such as autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and more that have both strengths and struggles.