What Is Borderline Autism in Adults?

August 7, 2025

“Borderline autism” isn’t an official diagnosis but is sometimes used to describe adults who show some traits of autism without meeting the full criteria for an autism spectrum disorder (ASD) diagnosis. These individuals may have social communication difficulties, restricted interests, or repetitive behaviors, but their symptoms may be less severe or not as pervasive as those seen in full-blown autism.

In adults, signs of borderline autism might be more subtle and could have been overlooked in childhood. These individuals might struggle with social interactions, anxiety in unfamiliar settings, or difficulty with change, but they may also have developed coping strategies over time.

Getting an accurate diagnosis is crucial to understanding the person’s needs and strengths. Early intervention and therapy, like ABA (Applied Behavior Analysis), can still be beneficial in adulthood. ABA can help improve social skills, reduce anxiety, and build more effective coping mechanisms.

At Little Rays ABA, we offer specialized therapy for adults with autism or autism-like traits. We provide individualized ABA support in Florida to help you or your loved one thrive.

Concerned about autism in adulthood?

SOURCES:

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/borderline-autism-in-adults

https://www.autismparentingmagazine.com/borderline-autism/

https://neurodivergentinsights.com/boderline-personality-disorder-or-autism/?srsltid=AfmBOopQ2M9z7GcndMn1t6kFXWhdPhZwtcO6GXF4j3J0BUSUx62jc5wf

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0191886923002106

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39258830/

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