High-functioning autism

High-functioning autism (HFA) is the condition of individuals who display symptoms of autism and are able to function close to a normal level in society. Generally, the social difficulties created by their autism do not adversely impact their ability to interact with others on a day-to-day basis. They may simultaneously benefit from some of the more positive aspects of autism. For example, they may have the ability to focus intensely and for long periods on a difficult problem. Asperger's syndrome is sometimes used in the same thought as HFA, and the exact difference between autism, Asperger's syndrome, and HFA varies from person to person.

In general, people with HFA tend to make fairly frequent social faux pas involving an inability to predict another party's thoughts, feelings or reactions to something possibly said, much like someone with autism might do. However, these difficulties do not manifest to the extent of full autism or Asperger's syndrome. People with HFA are sometimes articulate, intelligent, gifted, and hard workers when interested in a task, and excellent problem solvers - although people with HFA can be extreme procrastinators. Furthermore, they may appear somewhat removed or disconnected at times, especially in situations of sensory overload, or perceive extreme social pressure such as during a party.