The 3 Levels of Autism - apricott ABA

Different Levels of Autism

Autism, also known as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects communication, behavior, and social interaction.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 1 in 36 children in the U.S. have been diagnosed with ASD.

Individuals with autism may experience different symptoms at different levels.

ASD is best explained by the Autism Spectrum Wheel, and the levels of ASD refer to the amount of support individuals require to live a quality life.

How many levels of autism are there?

There are three levels of ASD, each with unique challenges and symptoms.

Understanding the differences between these levels can help individuals with ASD and their families receive appropriate support and treatment.

Level 1 Autism: Requiring Support

Level 1 ASD, also known as "requiring support," is the mildest form of autism.

Individuals with Level 1 ASD may have difficulty with social interactions, communication, and behavior, but their symptoms are usually mild and do not significantly impact their daily life.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 1 in 36 children in the U.S. have been diagnosed with ASD.

Some common challenges and symptoms of Level 1 ASD include:

Difficulty with social interactions, such as making eye contact, understanding nonverbal cues, and making and keeping friends.
Difficulty with communication, such as using and understanding language, taking turns in conversations, and interpreting sarcasm and figurative language.

Individuals with Level 1 ASD may benefit from support such as social skills training, speech therapy, and occupational therapy.

Repetitive behaviors or routines, such as lining up toys, following a strict schedule, or becoming upset with changes in routine.
Sensory sensitivities, such as being bothered by loud noises, certain textures, or bright lights.

Individuals with Level 1 ASD may benefit from support such as social skills training, speech therapy, and occupational therapy.

Level 2 Autism: Requiring Substantial Support

Level 2 ASD, also known as "requiring substantial support," is a moderate form of autism.

Individuals with Level 2 ASD may have more significant challenges with communication, behavior, and social interaction, which can impact their daily life.

Individuals with Level 2 ASD may benefit from support such as intensive behavioral therapy, individualized education plans (IEPs), and assistive technology.

Some common challenges and symptoms of Level 2 ASD include:

Difficulty with social interactions, such as difficulty initiating and maintaining conversations, difficulty understanding others' emotions, and a lack of interest in socializing with peers.
Limited communication skills, such as delayed language development, difficulty expressing needs and wants, and difficulty with nonverbal communication.
Repetitive behaviors or routines, such as hand-flapping, rocking back and forth, or becoming upset with changes in routine.
Sensory sensitivities, such as being bothered by certain textures, tastes, or smells.

Individuals with Level 2 ASD may benefit from support such as intensive behavioral therapy, individualized education plans (IEPs), and assistive technology.

Level 3 Autism: Requiring Very Substantial Support

Level 3 ASD, also known as "requiring very substantial support," is the most severe form of autism.

Individuals with Level 3 ASD may have significant challenges with communication, behavior, and social interaction, which can greatly impact their daily life.

Individuals with Level 3 ASD may benefit from support such as intensive behavioral therapy, 24-hour care, and assistive technology.

Some common challenges and symptoms of Level 3 ASD include:

Severe difficulty with social interactions, such as a lack of interest in socializing with others, difficulty initiating and maintaining conversations, and difficulty understanding others' emotions.
Limited or no communication skills, such as the inability to use language to communicate wants and needs, and difficulty with nonverbal communication.
Repetitive behaviors or routines, such as self-injurious behaviors, intense fixations on certain objects or topics, or difficulty with changes in routine.
Sensory sensitivities, such as being bothered by certain textures, tastes, or smells to the point of distress.

Individuals with Level 3 ASD may benefit from support such as intensive behavioral therapy, 24-hour care, and assistive technology.

In conclusion, understanding the three levels of autism can help individuals with ASD and their families receive appropriate support and treatment.

If you suspect that you or a loved one may have ASD, it is important to seek a diagnosis and work with a team of healthcare providers to develop a treatment plan that is tailored to your needs.