Resilience of Adults with High-Functioning Autism

Abstract

Individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) are characterised by difficulties in social communication and social interaction alongside unusually restricted, repetitive behaviour and interests. High-functioning individuals with autism have average or higher intelligence. The lack of intellectual disability does not mean, though, that they can simply overcome inherent social difficulties; they typically struggle to communicate effectively in a neurotypical world and adapt socially. They are at increased risk of having medical, developmental or psychiatric conditions. The developmental trajectories of individuals with high functioning autism vary significantly. Some persons produce notably better results than others with comparable difficulties and experience more positive feelings. Resilience seems to explain much of this variation. Resilience in autism is a less researched issue. The present article critically reviews studies in order to examine resilience in adults with high-functioning autism, while also considering suggestions for fostering resilience.