Low-Functioning Autism

A descriptor historically used to characterize individuals with autism spectrum disorder who have significant support needs, including limited or no verbal communication, intellectual disability, and difficulty with daily living skills. The term is increasingly considered outdated and problematic within the disability community, as it reduces complex individuals to a single dimension of functioning. Current clinical practice favors the DSM-5 support levels (Level 1-3) or descriptions of specific support needs. However, the term still appears frequently in research literature, particularly in studies of technology-based interventions for children with complex communication needs.