Level 2 of Autism

Main thing

Level 2 Autism, also known as Autism requiring substantial support, is a classification within the Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) as defined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5).

ASD is a developmental disorder that affects communication and behavior. It's a spectrum disorder, meaning it affects individuals differently and to varying degrees. Level 2 Autism is a moderate form of this disorder.

Individuals with Level 2 Autism often have difficulty with social situations and communication. They may struggle to change their behaviors and adapt to different settings. This level of autism requires substantial support, including therapy and educational interventions, to help the individual function in daily life.

Key symptoms that distinguish Level 2 Autism from other levels include:

1. Noticeable issues with social skills and communication, even with support in place.

2. Difficulty coping with change, leading to distress and difficulty changing focus or action.

3. Behaviors that interfere with functioning in various contexts.

4. Difficulty starting social interactions and limited ability to respond to social overtures from others.

Intelligence varies widely among individuals with Level 2 Autism, just as it does in the general population. Many people with Level 2 Autism have average or above-average intelligence.

For example, a child with Level 2 Autism may need a specialized education plan at school, regular therapy sessions, and additional support at home to manage daily tasks and social interactions.

Terms

• Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) - A developmental disorder impacting social interaction, communication, and behavior. Example: A person with ASD might have trouble understanding social cues.

• Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5) - The authoritative guide for diagnosing mental disorders, published by the American Psychiatric Association. Example: The DSM-5 introduced the current classification system for autism in 2013.

An Analogy

Think of Level 2 Autism like a mobile phone in an area with spotty coverage. Just as the phone struggles to maintain a clear connection, individuals with Level 2 Autism find it challenging to connect socially without substantial support.

A Main Misconception

Many believe that all individuals with autism are either non-verbal or have intellectual disabilities. However, those with Level 2 Autism often have average or above-average intelligence and can speak, but they struggle with the social aspects of communication.

The History

1. Early 20th Century: Autism is first recognized as a distinct condition.

2. 1980: Autism is officially added to the DSM-III.

3. 2013: The DSM-5 redefines autism into one umbrella diagnosis of ASD with three levels.

"Everyone has a mountain to climb and autism has not been my mountain, it has been my path for a different kind of journey." - Dr. Temple Grandin, a renowned spokesperson on autism and animal behavior.

Three Cases How to Use It Right Now

1. Education: A student with Level 2 Autism may use a tailored Individualized Education Program (IEP) to support learning.

2. Therapy: An adult with Level 2 Autism might engage in speech therapy to improve social communication.

3. Employment: An individual with Level 2 Autism could work in a structured environment with clear routines and support from colleagues.

Interesting Facts

• Level 2 Autism is characterized by a need for substantial support, more so than Level 1 Autism, but less than Level 3 Autism.

• Individuals with Level 2 Autism often have average or above-average intelligence, debunking the myth that all individuals with autism have intellectual disabilities.

• Early intervention and substantial support can lead to significant improvements in skills and behaviors for individuals with Level 2 Autism.

• The DSM-5, which introduced the current classification system for autism, has been instrumental in providing more precise diagnoses, such as Level 2 Autism.

• Many individuals with Level 2 Autism excel in certain areas, such as visual skills, music, math, and art, despite their social and communication challenges.