Autism Spectrum Disorder, High Functioning Autism in Adults - many terms and symptoms & why language is often misunderstood in the process. Autism does not mean deficit. 7 special strengths of autistic people.

Autism spectrum disorders: A neurological speciality with many strengths

What if all the idiosyncrasies and signs of autism you've spent a lifetime justifying are actually your greatest strengths?

The terms autism spectrum disorder, autism or Asperger's syndrome often evoke associations such as withdrawal, sensitivity to stimuli or social insecurity. But this understanding of autism falls short. What appears to be a weakness is often a different - not deficient - way of perceiving the world. Autistic thinking is not flawed, but focussed. Not too emotional, but deep. Not rigid, but consistent.

People on the autism spectrum have skills that are highly relevant in our over-stimulated, inconsistent society: analytical precision, moral clarity, uncompromising honesty and a distinctive specialised knowledge. Their neurological speciality is like a stable, reliable operating system in a confusing digital network - not perfect, but robust, efficient and long-lasting.

And yet, instead of being supported, many people with autism spectrum disorder experience pressure to adapt. They are pathologised, misinterpreted or overlooked. Yet we need them more than ever - as silent observers, ethical compass needles, loyal colleagues or creative lateral thinkers.

In this article, we would like to offer a perspective on the topic that moves away from pity, paternalism and demands for conformity.

What it's about:

What does it really mean to live with an autism spectrum disorder?

What are the common characteristics of autism? Are there characteristic symptoms - and how can we reinterpret them?

What is the difference between high-functioning autism and atypical autism - and how does this change our understanding?

And above all: what resources, potential and unutilised strengths do autistic people bring with them that can benefit us all?

Many people know the word "autism", but only a few understand what an autism spectrum disorder really means. Far too often, the focus is placed on the limitations and symptoms of autism. However, everyday life shows that people on the autism spectrum also have special strengths. This neurological speciality is not to be equated with an illness, but rather a different way of perceiving and processing the world.

What is the autism spectrum?

The term autism does not describe a single disorder, but rather an entire spectrum of neurological variants that differ greatly in terms of expression, intensity and visibility. In the medical classification system - for example in the Classification of Diseases - the term autism spectrum disorder is therefore used to describe the importance of language and communication in the context of autism. This term covers diagnoses such as early childhood autism, Asperger's syndrome or atypical autism, which today are usually no longer understood separately but under the umbrella of the spectrum.

The spectrum is broad: it ranges from people who are dependent on extensive support in everyday life to people whose special characteristics only become apparent in adulthood - often due to exhaustion, social difficulties or the feeling of never quite "belonging".

Autistic people often perceive their environment more intensely, but also differently. They do not process sensory impressions in a filtered way, react more sensitively to noise, light or touch and develop fixed routines to avoid sensory overload. Many find social interaction difficult, not because they are uninterested, but because non-verbal signals, irony or unspoken rules are more difficult to access. What is often overlooked: Precisely because many things have to be consciously analysed, many autistic people act thoughtfully, sincerely and with a high level of integrity.

Empathy and creativity are by no means absent. They just manifest themselves in unusual forms - for example, as an intense emotional response to suffering or as unusual ideas that go beyond social norms. Many people with autism spectrum disorder recognise patterns, details or logical structures much more quickly than neurotypical people. They often think systemically and consistently and are not distracted by conventions.

Why is this important? Because these characteristics not only represent individual differences, but also have social relevance. In areas such as IT, research, design or quality assurance, accuracy, perseverance and an awareness of rules are invaluable. In relationships, on the other hand, qualities such as honesty, moral clarity and emotional depth count - values that autistic people often embody in particular. Honesty, integrity and emotional depth are more valuable in both areas than superficial small talk.

What symptoms can occur with an autism spectrum disorder?

A core feature of autism is that it manifests itself through characteristic features that can - but do not have to - become apparent in early childhood. Many autistic children show abnormalities in play behaviour, language development or social contact at an early age. However, not all characteristics in the definition of autism are loud, conspicuous or unambiguous. Some children are withdrawn, others appear "too adapted", even over-adapted - a phenomenon that is observed particularly in girls with autism and later in autistic women.

As a result, an autism spectrum disorder is often only diagnosed in adulthood - often after years of excessive demands, incorrect labelling (e.g. ADHD, depression, personality disorder) or inner isolation. A late diagnosis is not "too late", but can be life-changing - it provides a framework for what has been experienced and opens up new paths.

Typical symptoms include abnormalities in social interaction, such as difficulties with eye contact, small talk, irony or unspoken rules. A special way of speaking - very precise, monotone or unusually eloquent - can also be a sign. Many also display repetitive and stereotypical behaviour. Rituals are also common features of autism. Others have strongly focussed interests or react sensitively to sounds, light, smells or touch. These sensory characteristics are not a side issue, but a central component of many autism profiles.

However, all these autistic symptoms do not necessarily represent a disorder in the medical sense. In the context of autism, it is important to differentiate between stress and speciality in order to better understand the development of autism. What is irritating for others, e.g. the need for repetition or structure, can be reassuring, meaningful and functional for those affected. The decisive factor is not how unusual a behaviour appears, but whether it leads to suffering, isolation or chronic stress in everyday life.

Instead of "normalising" behaviour, it is therefore worth taking a closer look: when are reactions in autism simply an attempt at self-regulation? Which patterns are an expression of depth, concentration or a need for protection? The aim is not to adapt, but to understand - and this understanding is the first step towards genuine inclusion.

Speciality: Speech dysfluency, speech disorders and the overlooked diagnosis

Selective mutism: when silence is not rejection

A linguistic phenomenon that can frequently occur with autism - and is often misunderstood - is selective mutism. This is not a language development disorder in the classic sense, but a persistent inability to speak that is limited to certain social situations or people. In familiar surroundings, the affected children or young people often speak normally - in school, daycare centres or public contexts, however, they fall completely silent.

In the autism spectrum, selective mutism is not uncommon, but is often viewed in isolation and autism tends to be overlooked. Instead of recognising the underlying causes - such as social overload, sensory sensitivity or non-verbal processing differences - the silence is classified as defiance, refusal or social anxiety. This is particularly problematic if only speech-activating measures are prescribed without recognising the autism and taking its communication processing into account.

For many autistic children, silence is not a decision against speech - but a withdrawal due to excessive demands. Anyone who understands selective mutism in the context of autistic characteristics recognises that it is not about refusing to speak, but about protection. And help doesn't start with "Open your mouth", but with the question: "What do you need to feel safe?"

Cramming: when language suddenly becomes urgent

Another linguistic phenomenon that can occur in the context of autism is cramming - a term from English-language research that describes the phenomenon of language being produced in dense, overloaded bursts of words. Those affected do not speak continuously, but "accumulate" language internally in order to then discharge it in a single rapid, intense outburst. The sentences are often long, rich in information and syntactically complex - almost as if the speaker is trying to "squeeze out" as much as possible in a short space of time.

This speech pattern can occur in both autistic children and autistic adults and is often misinterpreted as a speech flow disorder or "uncontrolled speech". In fact, however, cramming is often based on delayed processing or an internal planning process: the abrupt verbal expression only occurs once a complete thought has been internally organised.

Cramming is often overlooked because it is difficult to fit into the classic diagnostic framework. It is not stuttering, not aphasia, not a classic speech disorder - but an expression of a different processing rhythm. For diagnosticians, this means listening carefully instead of making hasty classifications. And for relatives: show patience - because even dense speech needs space.

What does echolalia mean?

A common linguistic phenomenon in the autism spectrum is echolalia - the repetition of words, parts of sentences or entire statements that have previously been heard by others. This repetition can occur immediately after hearing (direct echolalia) or with a time delay (delayed echolalia).

Echolalia is frequently observed in autistic children - for example, when they repeat part of a question instead of answering it themselves. While this may appear mechanical or "lifeless" to outsiders, echolalia often fulfils an important function: it can serve self-regulation, support language comprehension or be used as a strategy to participate in the conversation before their own language is available.

Echolalia also occurs in autistic adults - sometimes in the form of recurring quotations, advertising slogans or self-selected sentence blocks. These can help to structure conversations, give confidence in expression or serve as a socially accepted communication bridge.

It is important to note that echolalia is not "defective" speech, but often a creative and functional adaptation. Those who understand it can begin to decode underlying meanings - and accompany rather than interrupt communication.

Stuttering and autism: two phenomena that overlap - and can mask each other

Stuttering is significantly more common in autistic children than in the general population: while around 1% of all children stutter, the rate in autistic children is 4-5%. Children with so-called high-functioning autism or previous Asperger's diagnoses are particularly affected. At the same time, around 8% of children who stammer are also on the autism spectrum. The overlap is therefore relevant - but is rarely recognised in practice.

Both phenomena affect speech, but in different ways: Stuttering manifests itself through repetitions, blocks and disruptions in the flow of speech (speech dysfluency), while autistic communication peculiarities tend to manifest themselves in echolalia, unusual prosody, slowed speech processing or a detail-orientated mode of expression. However, it is precisely because autistic speech often appears unusual that such characteristics are prematurely misinterpreted as stuttering - and vice versa.

In addition, many children with autism display an atypical speech melody, repeat parts of sentences or abruptly change topics. These symptoms can be an expression of autism, but can also accompany or overlap with genuine stuttering. Speech dysorganisation, sentence breaks or unusual pauses then lead to speech therapy being carried out - but the autism behind it is overlooked.

Emotional factors also play a role: both stuttering and autistic communication are exacerbated by stress, sensory overload or social overload. Especially in autistic girls, who often adapt well linguistically, autism remains unrecognised for a long time - because the stuttering or "social shyness" is in the foreground.

What does this mean? Diagnosticians should be aware that autism is multifaceted and has different characteristics. and speech therapists should be aware of the overlap - and not only ask: "How does the child speak?", but also: "Why does it speak like this?" This is the only way to develop interventions that do not correct symptoms but enable understanding, especially with regard to difficulties in social interaction.

An often underestimated hurdle in the diagnosis of autism is the occurrence of comorbid speech disorders, in particular stuttering, selective mutism, echolalia or an overall slowed speech processing. These symptoms often take centre stage - both for parents and professionals - and lead to only the speech abnormality being treated initially. The underlying autism remains unrecognised.

Particularly in the case of autistic children who speak little, only address certain topics or appear to react "differently" in terms of language, there is often a suspicion of an isolated language development disorder. However, if treatment is exclusively language-centred without taking into account the overall social, sensory and communicative context, an autism spectrum disorder is often not diagnosed. This has consequences: Instead of holistic support, those affected receive measures that fail to meet their needs - and tend to be counterproductive in the long term.

How do the different forms of autism differ?

The forms of autism are just as diverse as the personalities of the people they affect. In current specialist literature, the term autism spectrum disorder has become established because it makes it clear that autism does not occur in rigid categories, but in individual constellations and manifestations. These can change over the course of a person's life and are heavily dependent on their social environment, coping strategies and access to support.

In the past, a distinction was made between the various aspects associated with the development of autism. A distinction was made between early childhood autism, Asperger's syndrome and atypical autism. Today, the term "spectrum" is more commonly used - and thus places the individual fit at the centre. Nevertheless, certain terms can help to better understand how differently autism is experienced and what challenges those affected face.

Atypical autism

In atypical autism, the symptoms and manifestations of autism do not fully meet the classic criteria - either because they only appear after the age of three or because they are present in an atypical combination. This form is less well known, but is becoming increasingly relevant, as it is suitable for many people who previously "did not fit the mould". Particularly in girls and women with autism, the atypical form is often concealed: through a high level of social adaptation, through "invisible" routines and through years of over-adaptation.

The consequences: Excessive demands, psychosomatic complaints or depression, which are misinterpreted for years. A diagnosis, even if only later, not only brings clarity, but often also relief - and the feeling of no longer having to constantly explain oneself.

High-functioning autism

High-functioning autism in adults describes people who are linguistically and cognitively very capable - and at the same time belong to the autism spectrum. They often don't stand out, are successful at work, appear organised and intelligent. However, behind the facade there is often an enormous mental effort: social roles are analysed and imitated, routines provide stability and emotional overload is compensated for, not shared.

These people often experience the feeling of constantly having to function - but not being enough. For a long time, many do not know why social situations are so exhausting or why they have the feeling of being "on the outside" in groups, which is often linked to the difficulties in social interaction. The diagnosis can be a turning point here: a moment of self-enlightenment, but also of setting boundaries against unrealistic expectations.

High-functioning autism is not a contradiction, but an expression of a fine balance between strengths and susceptibility to stimuli. Those who recognise it can begin to shape a life that focuses not on adaptation but on fitting in.describes people who have been diagnosed on the autism spectrum but have above-average linguistic or cognitive abilities. These people can be successful in everyday life, but often experience inner conflicts or stress in social interaction.

Special strengths of people with autism

Even if the public perception of autism is often associated with the hurdles and challenges of autism in children, a look behind the clichés shows that people with neurodivergent thinking bring perspectives that are lacking in many contexts. Autistic people have skills that act like anchors in a noisy, hectic and often contradictory world - quiet, but indispensable.

Strength 1: Honest and direct communication

A person with autism rarely speaks in code. Statements are usually clear, undisguised and free of social tactics. This form of communication may be unfamiliar to some, but it symbolises something very valuable: truthfulness. In a society full of diplomatic detours, this openness is a gift - for interpersonal relationships as well as for transparent work cultures.

Strength 2: Deep empathy for people and animals

The old prejudice that autistic people are "unfeeling" is not only wrong, but dangerous. Many feel very intensely - just differently, which often leads to difficulties in social interaction. Their empathy is often directed towards the invisible: towards animals, towards people in need, towards structures that hurt. It is not empathy for the sake of sympathy - but one that urges action.

Strength 3: Pattern recognition and an eye for detail

While others see the forest, autistic people often see every tree - and know why one of them doesn't belong there. Whether in series of numbers, conversations or everyday routines: they recognise connections, deviations and repetitions where others pass by carelessly. This ability is not a minor matter in research, programming or quality assurance, but the foundation.

Strength 4: Passionate expertise and focus

Many people with autism develop an encyclopaedic knowledge of "their subject". What appears to outsiders to be fixation is often an expression of deep curiosity, mental agility and a genuine interest in knowledge. Those who research, think and combine with such passion not only enrich themselves, but also those around them.

Strength 5: Observational intelligence

Not all strengths are loud. Some are quiet - but alert. People on the autism spectrum often notice details in facial expressions, movement or tone of voice that others miss. They think before they speak. They analyse before they judge. This form of intelligence works in the background - and that is precisely why it is so effective.

Strength 6: Creative and original imagination

Creativity is not just art - it is the ability to imagine something that does not (yet) exist. Autistic creativity rarely follows fashionable trends. It thinks laterally, unusually, sometimes disturbingly logically. It designs alternative worlds, new systems, unfamiliar metaphors - and this is precisely how real innovations are created.

Strength 7: Moral clarity and ethical thinking

Many autistic adults report that they physically sense injustice. For them, moral behaviour is not an option, but a necessity. Rules must make sense - not be arbitrary. Behaviour must be coherent - not performative. This ethical clarity can be uncomfortable - but it is an important force at a time when principles are often sacrificed to pragmatism, especially when it comes to autism. It prevents groupthink, challenges toxic structures, acts value-based rather than performance-driven and encourages others to think critically.

These seven strengths are not a myth, but a lived reality - often quietly, often overlooked. But those who recognise them also recognise that autism is not the end of a norm, but the beginning of a different quality.

How is autism diagnosed?

If autism is suspected, the diagnosis of autism is a complex, multi-stage process - and often an emotional turning point. It involves a comprehensive medical history, standardised questionnaires, structured behavioural observations and discussions with relatives. Specialised outpatient clinics or practices not only check whether certain symptoms are present, but also how they affect everyday life - and whether they lead to excessive demands, social withdrawal or inner exhaustion.

Diagnosing adults is particularly challenging because many of them have learned over the years to conceal their peculiarities, including repetitive and stereotypical behaviour. They appear conformist, successful and controlled - and often fall through the cracks as a result. Autistic women are particularly affected by this: Their symptoms often manifest themselves in an internalised way, as social exhaustion, anxiety or chronic self-doubt.

However, a late diagnosis is not a deficit - on the contrary: it can clarify what has previously remained diffuse. Many people report that the diagnosis allows them to understand their lives for the first time in retrospect - their childhood, their relationship dynamics, their professional challenges. This not only leads to more self-acceptance, but also to concrete changes: in everyday life, in partnerships, in dealing with stress.

Children with early childhood autism also show that the path to diagnosis is rarely linear. Some children receive a clear assessment early on, others only after years of intensive observation. It is crucial that parents, teachers and professionals look together - without making hasty judgements, but with a great deal of openness to what is going on beneath the surface.

An autism diagnosis is not a label, but a tool. It makes visible what has previously remained nameless - and creates space for support, understanding and development.

Therapy for autism: what options are there?

The term "therapy" is problematic in connection with autism - at least when it suggests that the aim is to "treat" or "adapt" autistic people. Autism is not an illness, but a neurological speciality with its very own challenges and potential. It is about supporting people with autism. What is needed is not a cure, but a supportive environment and access to targeted, individualised support - especially when comorbid conditions such as anxiety disorders, depression or chronic fatigue are added to the mix.

Around 78% of people on the autism spectrum develop depressive symptoms in the course of their lives. Panic disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorders or chronic sleep problems also occur more frequently. Therapeutic support is useful here - but always in the knowledge that it is orientated towards the accompanying symptoms, not the autism diagnosis itself.

The focus is therefore not on corrective measures, but on strengthening resources. This includes

the development of stable routines

Targeted stimulus regulation (e.g. sensory break rooms, noise-cancelling, lighting design)

social support in the form of peer groups or coaches with experience of autism

A safe space in which you don't have to function, but are understood

Behavioural therapy elements, communication training or psycho-educational offers can also be helpful - if they are designed to be appreciative, individual and at eye level. The aim is not to fulfil neurotypical norms, but to improve one's own quality of life. The aim is not to "function according to the norm", but to create an everyday life that feels coherent, safe and self-effective.

What many people report: Just knowing that you are not "wrong", but simply "different", changes your inner attitude. You start to take yourself seriously - and stop constantly overstretching yourself. This type of support is not therapy in the traditional sense. It is the beginning of a new self-relationship - and often the first step towards real participation.

Conclusion: Why it is important to see autism differently

Autistic people are not a deviation from normality - they are part of the human condition. Anyone who only views autism through the lens of symptoms, deficits or diagnostic criteria overlooks the crucial dimension: autism is not a disorder in the true sense of the word, but an expression of a different cognitive and emotional operating system.

The seven strengths described make it clear how valuable neurodivergent ways of thinking and perceiving are:

Honest communication: clarity instead of double bottoming.

Deep empathy: For what is quiet and overlooked.

Pattern recognition and attention to detail: Precision where others overlook.

Passionate expertise: Persistent, deep, original.

Observational intelligence: Attention to nuances.

Creative imagination: Thinking differently to create something new.

Moral clarity: Values, not just rules, are crucial for interaction and communication.

These skills are not a minor matter - they are what is needed in a complex, noisy and often contradictory society. And they show: People on the autism spectrum are needed not despite, but because of their neurological speciality - as precise analysts, loyal co-thinkers, creative lateral thinkers and ethical correctors.

What is needed is not more therapy - but more understanding. Not adaptation - but context. Not standardisation - but facilitation. An environment that does not reward people for hiding their idiosyncrasies, but allows them to become visible.

Recognising autism does not mean fixing it. It means taking it seriously. As an expression of diversity, as a resource - and as an invitation to rethink our idea of normality.

Key points at a glance:

Autism spectrum disorders encompass many manifestations and are not a disease. Typical symptoms relate to communication, social interaction and sensory processing. High-functioning autism and atypical autism are often difficult to recognise. Many people with autism have special abilities and perspectives. An early diagnosis of autism can help to find appropriate support. Therapy for autism should be resource-orientated and individualised. Autism in adults deserves more visibility in society. Recognising autism and the difficulties in social interaction promotes inclusion, self-confidence and participation.

Key strengths at a glance:

• Honest communication: People on the autism spectrum communicate directly, transparently and free of double messages - a quality that creates trust.

• Deep empathy: They often feel injustice, suffering or need for help more intensely - even where others look away.

• Pattern recognition and attention to detail: They recognise structures, errors and correlations in systems, numbers or language with impressive precision.

• Expertise and focus: Those who are enthusiastic about a topic stay with it - with perseverance, depth and passion.

• Observational intelligence: They notice many things that others miss - subtle differences, silent moods, logical contradictions.

• Creativity: They think outside the box, make new combinations and develop ideas beyond the expected.

• Moral clarity: Their thinking is characterised by inner coherence - values such as fairness, honesty and responsibility are non-negotiable.

These strengths not only make autistic people special - they make them indispensable. In a world that is looking for orientation, depth and clarity, it is precisely these qualities that are of central importance.

Frequently asked questions about autism, strengths and language characteristics (FAQ)

What are autism spectrum disorders (ASD)?

Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are neurological variants that affect perception, communication, interaction and stimulus processing. They are not considered a disease, but a neurodivergent form of thinking and feeling with different characteristics.

Autism - What is autism spectrum disorder?

ASD describes a broad spectrum of special characteristics: from early childhood autism to atypical to high-functioning autism. What they all have in common is the different, often very direct processing of stimuli, language and social situations.

Atypical forms and autism in women in particular are still overlooked or misdiagnosed. Simultaneously occurring symptoms such as stammering or selective mutism also contribute to the actual neurological speciality remaining in the background.

What strengths do people with autism have?

Autistic people are often honest, detail-orientated, empathetic, loyal, creative and morally consistent. They bring clarity to systems and depth to interpersonal relationships - if they are given the right conditions.

What special abilities do autistic people have?

Many have exceptional expertise, discover patterns before others see them, communicate without deception and act ethically and consistently. These skills are particularly valuable in areas such as research, design, IT or ethics.

What are people with autism particularly good at?

They analyse complex relationships, work with focus and perseverance on topics that interest them and often have a keen perception for details, moods and inconsistencies.

How do people with autism perceive things?

They perceive stimuli more intensely, more unfiltered and often more systemically. This applies to sounds, light, speech - but also social situations. Many have a high sensitivity to inconsistency or injustice.

Why do people with autism "tune"?

"Stimming" (from "self-stimulating behaviour") describes stereotypical movements such as rocking, humming or hand flapping. These help to regulate stimuli, reduce tension and can have a calming effect. They are an expression of self-control, not "misbehaviour".

What is echolalia?

Echolalia is the repetition of words or sentences - immediately or with a time delay. It can be used for processing, understanding or emotional equalisation. In autism, it is often functional and not pathological.

What is selective mutism?

Selective mutism is a situation-dependent silence - e.g. only at school, but not at home. In the autism spectrum, it often occurs as a reaction to excessive demands and should not be confused with refusal.

What does cramming mean?

Cramming refers to the sudden, dense "squeezing out" of speech after internal congestion. It appears overloaded or uncontrolled, but is an expression of inner structure. It is often overlooked or misinterpreted.

What is special about the language of autistic people?

It can be very precise, formal, figurative or monotonous. Many communicate functionally rather than socially. Their language is often direct, sometimes unusual - but always authentic.

What is masking?

People with autism learn to mask, especially if they were not diagnosed in childhood. Masking is a strategy to deliberately conceal autistic characteristics in order to be perceived as neurotypical. It affects facial expressions, speech, body language - and costs a lot of energy.

Why do autistic people mask?

Masking - the deliberate concealment of autistic characteristics - serves to protect against marginalisation, misunderstandings or social rejection. It is exhausting and often the cause of later exhaustion or depression.

What is high-functioning autism?

People with high-functioning autism have no cognitive or linguistic impairment, appear outwardly adapted, but experience high internal stress - especially in social contexts.

What is atypical autism?

Atypical autism does not show some classic features at all, or they appear late. It is often less noticeable, but just as relevant - and is often overlooked, especially in girls with atypical autism.