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Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) affects how people interact, communicate, and process the world around them. If you are searching for the different kinds of autism, you are not alone. Many families are confused by changing terminology, especially since the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual (DSM-5) redefined autism classifications in 2013. This guide walks through the historical “types” of autism, current support levels, and how both help us better understand and support individuals with ASD.
Historical Types of Autism (Pre-2013 DSM-IV)
Before the DSM-5 was released, autism was categorized into five distinct types. These classifications aimed to define different presentations of autistic behaviors and developmental patterns. While no longer used in clinical diagnosis, they still provide helpful context.
Classic Autism (Autistic Disorder)
This was considered the most recognizable form of autism under previous diagnostic systems. It typically involved significant language delays, limited social interactions, and noticeable repetitive behaviors. Children with classic autism often had broader developmental delays and required substantial support across various areas of daily life, including communication, motor skills, and adaptive behavior.
Asperger’s Syndrome
Sometimes referred to as “high-functioning autism,” Asperger’s was marked by average to above-average intelligence and language development but significant challenges with social interaction, nonverbal communication, and restricted interests. Many individuals with Asperger’s had difficulty understanding social cues and displayed repetitive patterns of behavior.
Pervasive Developmental Disorder – Not Otherwise Specified (PDD-NOS)
This was a catch-all category for individuals who displayed some characteristics of autism but did not meet the full diagnostic criteria for other subtypes. PDD-NOS often included mild language or social skills delays and less severe forms of repetitive behaviors.
Rett Syndrome
Rett syndrome is now considered a rare genetic disorder distinct from autism spectrum disorder. It is most commonly seen in girls and is marked by a period of apparently normal development followed by a regression in motor skills, communication abilities, and cognitive function. This severe neurodevelopmental disorder is linked to mutations in the MECP2 gene and is typically diagnosed in early childhood.
Childhood Disintegrative Disorder (CDD)
Also known as Heller’s Syndrome, CDD involves normal development for the first few years of life, followed by a severe and sudden loss of social, communication, and motor skills. This condition is extremely rare and is now categorized under broader neurodevelopmental disorders.
DSM-5 Redefined Autism as a Spectrum
In 2013, the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) reclassified autism by removing the five subtypes and introducing a single diagnosis: Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). While autism is categorized in the DSM among neurodevelopmental and mental disorders, it is recognized as a unique condition that affects individuals differently, often involving social communication challenges and behavioral patterns.
The term “spectrum” emphasizes that autism can affect individuals in a wide variety of ways, from mild social challenges to significant impairments in verbal and nonverbal communication. Today, instead of being classified by type, individuals with ASD are assessed based on support needs and symptom severity.
Understanding the 3 Levels of Autism Support Needs
The DSM-5 introduced three levels of autism to clarify the kind and amount of support each individual may need. These levels are designed to reflect how autism affects communication, social interaction, and behavioral patterns in varying ways.
This framework helps guide decisions about treatment planning, educational accommodations, and therapeutic interventions. It ensures that support strategies are matched to a person’s unique challenges and strengths.
Level 1: Requires Support
This level is sometimes referred to as “mild” autism. Individuals may have intact language skills and average intelligence but struggle with flexible thinking, social communication, or managing change. They often appear independent but still face challenges in navigating complex social situations or adapting to unexpected changes. They might:
- Have trouble making or keeping friends
- Exhibit unusual or overly focused interests
- Show subtle repetitive behaviors or rigid routines
Level 2: Requires Substantial Support
People at this level show more noticeable symptoms and require consistent interventions. Language delays, social interaction difficulties, and sensory sensitivities are common. They may also struggle with managing emotions or behavior in unfamiliar settings, making structured routines and therapeutic support especially important. You may notice:
- Limited verbal communication or difficulty starting conversations
- Repetitive behaviors that interfere with daily life
- Difficulty coping with changes in routine or sensory input
Level 3: Requires Very Substantial Support
This is the most severe form of ASD diagnosis under current criteria. Individuals at Level 3 typically have significant impairments in communication and motor skills, as well as a high frequency of repetitive behaviors. Characteristics often include:
- Minimal or absent verbal communication
- Frequent distress due to changes or sensory triggers
- Dependence on full-time support for daily living
Comparing Autism Support Levels
| Feature | Level 1 | Level 2 | Level 3 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Social Skills | Needs support for social cues | Limited verbal interaction | Very limited or absent interaction |
| Communication | Some challenges | Significant speech/language delays | May be nonverbal |
| Repetitive Behaviors | Noticeable but manageable | Frequent and disruptive | Intense and persistent |
| Flexibility to Change | Difficulty with transitions | Rigid routines and sensory issues | Severe distress with change |
| Support Required | Part-time or situational | Structured daily interventions | Full-time, individualized support |
Are There Still “Kinds” of Autism?
Even though the DSM-5 no longer uses subtypes, many families and even professionals still refer to terms like Asperger’s or classic autism. These terms can provide helpful shorthand for describing symptoms and strengths, but they are no longer recognized as formal diagnoses.
Instead of labeling by kind, professionals now focus on:
- Individual support needs
- Functional communication skills
- Cognitive and motor development
- Behavioral patterns and triggers
Understanding these aspects allows for tailored support, whether that includes applied behavior analysis, speech therapy, occupational therapy, or educational planning.
Symptoms Shared Across the Spectrum
Despite the wide variation in how ASD presents, many individuals share common challenges across the autism spectrum. These core symptoms typically appear in early childhood and persist throughout life, though their intensity can change with appropriate support.
Common shared symptoms include:
- Social communication difficulties: Trouble understanding body language, tone of voice, or social norms
- Repetitive behaviors: Repetitive hand movements, speech patterns, or strict adherence to routines
- Sensory sensitivities: Strong reactions to sounds, lights, textures, or smells
- Language and communication delays: Late language development or reliance on alternative communication tools
- Fine motor skill delays: Struggles with tasks like handwriting, buttoning clothes, or using utensils
These shared characteristics help guide early intervention and the development of treatment plans for each child’s unique profile.
Conclusion
Understanding the kinds of autism, from the historical subtypes to the modern-day support levels, helps caregivers, parents, educators, and clinicians provide better, more informed care. While labels have evolved, the goal remains the same: to meet each individual’s needs with compassion and clarity. By recognizing the spectrum of experiences and support requirements, we can create environments where every child can grow, communicate, and connect in their own way.
At Nurturing Nests Therapy Center Inc. in Los Angeles, we provide personalized, evidence-based ABA therapy designed to meet your child’s unique developmental needs. Our experienced team works closely with families to foster communication, independence, and meaningful progress. Whether you are navigating a recent diagnosis or exploring early signs, we are here to support your journey every step of the way. Contact us today to learn how we can partner with you in helping your child thrive.
FAQs
What are the 7 types of autism?
While the DSM-5 no longer uses “types,” historically there were five: Autistic Disorder (Classic Autism), Asperger’s Syndrome, PDD-NOS, Rett Syndrome, and Childhood Disintegrative Disorder. Some sources expand this list to include High-Functioning Autism and Atypical Autism. Today, these are all categorized under Autism Spectrum Disorder.
What is the mildest type of autism?
The mildest form is typically considered Level 1 ASD, where individuals need some support but often have age-appropriate language and cognitive skills. Previously, this might have been labeled as Asperger’s or high-functioning autism, although these terms are no longer clinically used.
What are the 4 categories of autism?
There are no longer 4 official categories, but you might see older references listing: Autistic Disorder, Asperger’s Syndrome, PDD-NOS, and Childhood Disintegrative Disorder. These have been consolidated into a single diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder under the DSM-5.
What is the most common type of autism?
Currently, the most common presentation is Level 1 ASD. Individuals at this level may attend mainstream schools and require limited but consistent support for social and behavioral challenges. They often develop coping strategies with the help of therapy and accommodations.
