Review on Contributing Factors to Anxiety in High-Functioning Autism

Abstract

Individuals with autism spectrum disorder are characterised by difficulties in social communication, by restricted, repetitive behaviour and interests. Autism is a highly heterogeneous disorder; high-functioning individuals with autism have average or higher intelligence and superficially normal language skills. The lack of intellectual disability does not mean that they can overcome inherent difficulties in social communication and interaction. They struggle to negotiate social interactions and manage daily tasks in a neurotypical world. They are at risk of experiencing mental health difficulties compared to general population. One of the most common mental health difficulties co-occurring with high-functioning autism is anxiety, which is associated with poor individual, family, and social outcomes. The chapter reviews studies on the contributing factors to anxiety in high-functioning autism. Psychological, cognitive, and social factors seem to be important, while there are indications for the existence of some neurobiological basis. It also considers ideas as to how to tackle anxiety.