Neurofunctional assessment in two cases of autism spectrum disorder with high cognitive abilities
Keywords:
autism spectrum disorder; giftedness; high intellectual abilities; social interaction; differential diagnosisAbstract
Introduction: Autism Spectrum Disorder is a neurodevelopmental condition characterized by difficulties in social communication and interaction, restricted interests, repetitive behaviors, and stereotyped patterns. Individuals with high intellectual abilities may exhibit Autism Spectrum Disorder manifestations that are more difficult to identify, requiring a comprehensive and multidisciplinary assessment.
Objective: to analyze the behavioral and social impairments observed in individuals with high intellectual abilities who present characteristics consistent with Autism Spectrum Disorder.
Methods: a comparative case presentation was conducted involving two individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder and high intellectual abilities: a 16-year-7-month-old adolescent and a 6-year-11-month-old child, both referred by the psychology department of a private educational institution. The evaluation included clinical behavioral observation, assessment of responses to stressful situations, and administration of standardized diagnostic instruments.
Results: both cases demonstrated characteristics consistent with Autism Spectrum Disorder in the context of high intellectual abilities. The most prominent difficulties were observed in the domain of social interaction, affecting peer relationships and adaptation across personal and educational settings.
Conclusions: high intellectual abilities do not preclude the diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder. These cases illustrate that socio-communicative difficulties may persist despite advanced cognitive functioning and can result in significant functional limitations. Comprehensive assessment is therefore essential for accurate diagnosis, timely identification, and appropriate intervention.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Kenia Mariela Peñafiel Jaramillo, Marcelo Fernando Viteri Villa, Nicole Viteri Rodríguez, María Herrera Manobanda
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