Why We Should Stop Saying “High-Functioning” and “Low-Functioning” Autism & What to Say Instead

As a culture, we need to stop saying high-functioning and low-functioning autism, even though we have grown used to these terms to describe individuals on the autism spectrum. While these labels might seem like a convenient way to communicate the level of support someone might need, they oversimplify a complex condition and can do more harm than good. Here’s why it’s time to retire these terms and adopt more accurate and respectful language.

1. They Ignore the Complexity of Autism

Autism is a spectrum, meaning it encompasses a wide range of traits and experiences. Someone who is considered “high-functioning” might excel academically or professionally but struggle with sensory overload, anxiety, or daily living tasks. Conversely, a person labeled “low-functioning” might have significant communication challenges but excel in creativity, emotional intelligence, or other areas. Functioning labels fail to capture these nuances.

2. They Perpetuate Harmful Stereotypes

Labels like “high-functioning” and “low-functioning” can lead to assumptions about a person’s abilities and needs. Someone labeled “high-functioning” might be denied necessary accommodations because they are perceived as not needing support. On the other hand, individuals labeled “low-functioning” might be underestimated or excluded from opportunities, limiting their potential.

3. They Prioritize External Perceptions

These labels are often based on how an individual’s autism presents to others, rather than the lived experience of the person themselves. For example, a person who can mask their autism traits in social settings might be deemed “high-functioning,” even if the effort leaves them exhausted or distressed. This focus on external appearance can invalidate the challenges many autistic people face.

4. They Contribute to Ableism

Functioning labels reinforce a binary view of autism, dividing people into categories of “able” or “disabled” based on arbitrary criteria. This binary thinking undermines the neurodiversity movement, which emphasizes that all autistic individuals have inherent value and deserve respect, regardless of their abilities or challenges.

5. The Community has Spoken

Many autistic self-advocates have spoken out against functioning labels, explaining how they can be limiting and stigmatizing. Listening to and respecting the preferences of the autistic community is essential in fostering inclusion and understanding.

Steps to THRIVE

Alternative Language is More Respectful

Instead of functioning labels, many advocates and professionals recommend describing individuals based on their specific support needs.

For example:

• Jerry requires minimal support in social and communication settings.

• Lisa needs significant support with daily living tasks.

This approach focuses on the individual rather than a vague label, acknowledging their strengths and areas of need without reducing them to a single term.

The language we use shapes the way we think and interact with the world. By moving away from terms like “high-functioning” and “low-functioning,” we can create a more inclusive and accurate way of understanding autism. Let’s focus on meeting individuals where they are, recognizing their unique strengths and challenges, and advocating for support systems that empower everyone on the spectrum to thrive.