Why Are We Linking Autism to Intelligence?

There is a growing narrative that quietly links autism with IQ.

In policy discussions. In media articles. In debates about “severity” or “profound” presentations.

But here’s the question we need to ask:

Why are we linking autism to intelligence at all?

Because they are not the same thing.

Autism Is About Processing — Not IQ

Autism is a neurodevelopmental difference.

It affects:

• Social communication

• Social interaction

• Sensory processing

• Regulation of the nervous system

• Patterns of interest and focus

Autism describes how the brain processes the world.

IQ measures something entirely different — typically reasoning, memory, processing speed, and verbal comprehension under structured testing conditions.

One is about neurotype. The other is about cognitive testing.

They are not interchangeable.

Where The Confusion Begins

The confusion often starts when support needs are described as “severity.”

When someone:

• Is non-speaking

• Requires high levels of daily support

• Needs assistance with personal care

• Has complex medical needs

It is sometimes assumed that intelligence must also be impaired.

But high support needs do not automatically equal low intelligence.

Adaptive functioning, communication access, motor planning, sensory overwhelm, and executive functioning can all impact how ability is expressed.

Sometimes what is being measured is not intelligence — but accessibility.

Learning Disability Is Separate

In the UK, significant cognitive impairment is described as a learning disability (intellectual disability).

It is a separate diagnosis.

Some individuals with autism also have a learning disability.

Many do not.

Blending the two into one public narrative creates misunderstanding — and risks lowering expectations unnecessarily.

Why This Matters

When autism becomes associated with IQ:

• Educational expectations shift.

• Assumptions are made before strengths are explored.

• Support becomes label-led instead of need-led.

• Policy conversations focus on cost rather than capability.

Autism does not determine intelligence.

It does not define potential.

It does not predict outcome.

It describes a different way of experiencing and responding to the world.

The Real Question

Perhaps the better question is not:

“Is intelligence part of autism?”

But:

“Why are we so uncomfortable allowing autism to exist across the full range of human intelligence?”

If we want better education, better services, and better understanding, we must separate:

Neurotype from Intellectual ability

Because they are not the same.