An orange balloon with a string attached to it on a white background.
The logo for steady strides aba is blue and orange.

Borderline Autism in Adults: Recognizing the Signs and Finding Support

Borderline autism, often referred to as “autism spectrum disorder (ASD) traits” in adults, is a condition that includes mild or subclinical signs of autism without meeting the full diagnostic criteria for autism.


This means that adults with borderline autism may experience difficulties in areas such as social interactions, communication, and sensory sensitivity, but these challenges don’t severely impair daily functioning.


According to Dr. Tony Attwood, a leading expert on autism, many adults with borderline autism often go undiagnosed, which can lead to feelings of confusion or frustration. These adults may have learned to mask their traits over the years, making it harder for others to recognize that they are on the spectrum.


Signs and Symptoms of Borderline Autism in Adults

The signs of borderline autism can vary widely, but common traits include social awkwardness, difficulty interpreting nonverbal cues, and a tendency to focus intensely on specific interests. Sensory overload can also be a major challenge, with some individuals feeling overwhelmed by lights, sounds, or textures.


It's important to note that while borderline autism doesn’t disrupt life as much as severe autism, it can still affect relationships and work life. Adults may experience social anxiety, depression, or struggle with professional communication.


Seeking Support with Steady Strides ABA

Steady Strides ABA offers specialized ABA services in Texas and New Mexico. Our team of experts provides personalized ABA therapy to help autistic individuals build confidence, improve communication, and navigate life more smoothly.


Find out how Steady Strides ABA can make a difference today!


Looking for Guidance?

We're Here for You!

Our dedicated professionals are committed to helping your child thrive. Connect with us to learn how our ABA therapy can make a difference.

Get In Touch With Our ABA Experts Today

Autistic child’s hand arranging wooden blocks into houses during school-based ABA therapy in Texas.
By Tova Leibowitz, BCBA, Clinical Director August 25, 2025
Learn about the success rate of ABA therapy, what research shows, and how outcomes vary based on early intervention, consistency, and personalized care.
Autistic children playing an matching card game on the floor during school-based ABA therapy in TX.
By Tova Leibowitz, BCBA, Clinical Director August 25, 2025
Explore the concerns and criticisms around ABA therapy, how it impacts autistic individuals, and what factors make it a positive or negative experience.
Family reading a book together on the floor with autistic children, surrounded by plants in Texas.
By Tova Leibowitz, BCBA, Clinical Director August 25, 2025
Learn how families can make ABA therapy a positive experience through collaboration, consistency, parent training, and child-centered support strategies.
Autistic kids on a stage with red curtains and string lights during center-based ABA therapy in TX.
By Tova Leibowitz, BCBA, Clinical Director August 25, 2025
Explore therapy options beyond ABA, including speech therapy, occupational therapy, Floortime, and other effective child-centered approaches to autism support.
ABA therapist and autistic child building with colorful toy blocks during in-home ABA therapy in TX.
By Jane Miller August 25, 2025
Explore the differences and overlaps between OCD and autism, including symptoms, diagnosis, and why they’re considered distinct but sometimes co-occurring.
Blue ribbon with letter tiles spelling “AUTISM” on white background, symbolizing autism awareness.
By Jane Miller August 22, 2025
Learn the meaning behind autism ribbon colors, including the puzzle pattern and rainbow themes, and how they promote awareness, acceptance, and support.
Hand holding a red puzzle piece with a heart in the center, symbolizing autism awareness in Texas.
By Jane Miller August 22, 2025
Explore the call for inclusive emoji designs that represent autism, why representation matters, and how digital symbols can foster awareness and acceptance.
Two utistic children playing with ride-on and push toys during a daycare-based ABA therapy in TX.
By Tova Leibowitz, BCBA, Clinical Director August 22, 2025
Learn how ABA therapy can be effectively integrated into daycare settings to support social, behavioral, and developmental growth in young children with autism.
Mother of autistic child working at a laptop, reading ABA therapy insurance documents at home in TX.
By Tova Leibowitz, BCBA, Clinical Director August 18, 2025
Learn who pays for ABA therapy, including private insurance, Medicaid, school programs, and out-of-pocket options to help families plan for treatment costs.
Parent of an autistic child writing in notebook while calculating ABA therapy cost on a desk in TX.
By Tova Leibowitz, BCBA, Clinical Director August 18, 2025
Wondering how much ABA therapy costs without insurance? Learn what to expect in out-of-pocket expenses and ways to manage or reduce the financial burden.
Show More