How Is High-Functioning Autism Diagnosed?

High-functioning autism is diagnosed through a comprehensive developmental evaluation, not a single test. Today, doctors use the term Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)Level 1, which means the person needs support but can function more independently than others on the spectrum.

The process usually starts with concerns about social communication, behavior, or sensory sensitivities. A pediatrician may refer the child to a developmental pediatrician, psychologist, or neurologist. These specialists use standardized tools such as the ADOS-2 (Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule) and detailed parent interviews, along with cognitive, speech, and behavioral assessments. They look for patterns like difficulty with social interaction, understanding social cues, rigid thinking, and repetitive behaviors that have been present since early development.

Input from parents, teachers, and therapists is also essential, since autism traits can look different at home, school, and in social settings. The goal isn’t just to label a child, but to understand their strengths, challenges, and support needs.

At Admire ABA, we help families navigate the evaluation process and provide evidence-based personalized ABA therapy in Maryland once a diagnosis is made. 

Learn how early assessment and targeted support can help your child build confidence and thrive. Contact us today!

SOURCES:

https://www.wpspublish.com/ados-2-autism-diagnostic-observation-schedule-second-edition

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5813679

https://www.acer.org/files/ADOS-2Report.pdf

https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/medicine-and-dentistry/autism-diagnostic-observation-schedule

https://www.mater.org.au/getmedia/9a7bad39-7a5a-436b-869e-b207d0227dec/ADOS-Flyer.pdf