Understanding the Levels of Autism
Lindsay Knake
| 3 min read
Lindsay Knake is a brand journalist for Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan.
When an individual is diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), they will be placed in one of three levels.
The levels of autism lay out how much support a child or adult with autism needs. ASD is a range of developmental differences starting in early childhood. These differences may involve social behavior, language and communication.
The autism levels were first introduced in 2013 in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders 5th edition (DSM-5), a reference book on mental health from the American Psychiatric Association. Here is a look at the autism levels and the range of support needs for people with autism.
Level 1 autism: Requiring support
Among the three levels of autism, level 1 requires the least amount of support; this can be known as “high functioning.” They may have high verbal skills and attend mainstream education without needing much additional support, according to the Child Mind Institute.
However, this does not mean a person with level 1 autism needs no support. People at level 1 may seem neurotypical or non-autistic in some ways but have difficulty in certain areas, such as:
- Sensory sensitivities to sound, light or touch
- Prefer routines and struggle with change
- Have difficulty engaging in conversations with non-autistic people
- Misread social cues or facial expressions
- Think or communicate in a literal way
Level 2 autism: Requiring substantial support
Those with level 2 autism will need more daily support for communication and living. Children may need structured programs and receive accommodations such as an aide in school.
Common traits of a person with a level 2 autism diagnosis include:
- Limited verbal and nonverbal communication skills
- Difficulty managing changes in environment and routine
- Engaging in repetitive behaviors to self-soothe
Level 3 autism: Requiring very substantial support
Those with level 3 autism will need the most support, and they may not be able to live on their own. Children with level 3 autism may need special education, and children and adults alike may need behavioral and occupational therapy.
Common traits of individuals with level 3 autism include:
- Being nonverbal or limited speech
- Struggling with change and transitions
- Engage in frequent and intense repetitive self-soothing behaviors
- Needing help with self-care such as hygiene
- Requiring 24/7 supervision or aid
How to support people with autism
When an individual child or adult has an autism diagnosis, health care providers can help determine the person’s needs. The levels of autism can help as a starting point for families or newly diagnosed adults to understand autism, but autism is complex and every individual has their own needs, according to the Seattle Children’s Hospital. A health care team will work with an adult or the child and their family to determine what the individual needs to feel comfortable, gain increased independence, and communicate with others.
These levels are not always the same in a lifetime; children or adults may have lower support needs, services and accommodations with time. The amount of support someone needs can also depend on whether they are rested or overstimulated or going through a major life change such as puberty, graduation or a new job. An autistic person may struggle more or need more support when they are stressed or tired.
Family members and loved ones can help by learning more about autism spectrum disorder and understanding the myths and stigmas surrounding the disorder, according to the Cleveland Clinic. Ultimately, with support and care, people with autism can manage their struggles and grow their strengths.
Image: Getty Images
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