Levels of Autism Spectrum Disorder

Main Thing

Autism Spectrum Disorder, or ASD, has different levels defined by the American Psychiatric Association. These levels help to understand the support a person with ASD might need.

ASD is a developmental disorder. It affects how a person interacts and communicates with others. It's called a "spectrum" because symptoms can range from mild to severe.There are three levels of ASD:

1. Level 1: Known as "requiring support". People at this level can have trouble with social situations. They might find it hard to make friends. They can communicate, but they might struggle with back-and-forth conversations.

2. Level 2: Known as "requiring substantial support". People at this level have more severe symptoms. They might speak in simple sentences. They might have repetitive behaviors. They might resist change.

3. Level 3: Known as "requiring very substantial support". People at this level have severe symptoms. They might not speak at all. They might have very limited interest in activities or interaction.

An example of Level 1 ASD could be someone who works and lives independently but has difficulties in social interactions and forming friendships.

Terms

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

• Spectrum - A range of different positions, situations, or levels. In ASD, it refers to the range of symptoms from mild to severe. Example: John's ASD is on the milder end of the spectrum, so he requires less support.

• American Psychiatric Association - The main professional organization of psychiatrists and trainee psychiatrists in the United States, and the largest psychiatric organization in the world. Example: The American Psychiatric Association publishes the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, which defines and classifies mental disorders.

An Analogy

Think of ASD as a radio. Just like there are different frequencies on a radio, there are different levels in ASD. Some frequencies (or levels) require more fine-tuning (or support) than others.

A Main Misconception

A common misconception about ASD is that all individuals with the disorder are alike. In reality, ASD is a spectrum disorder, meaning symptoms can vary widely from person to person. For example, while one individual might have mild symptoms and require less support (Level 1), another individual might have severe symptoms and require substantial support (Level 3).

The History

1. 1943: Leo Kanner, a psychiatrist, first describes autism.

2. 1980: Autism is officially added to the American Psychiatric Association's Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM).

3. 2013: The DSM-5 introduces the term "Autism Spectrum Disorder" and defines the three levels.

Leo Kanner, known for his work in child psychiatry, once said, "Autism is a world that can be understood only by not trying to make it a statistical world."

Three Cases How to Use It Right Now

1. If you're a teacher with a student diagnosed with Level 1 ASD, you might need to provide extra support during social activities, like group projects or field trips.

2. As a parent of a child with Level 2 ASD, you might need to establish a consistent routine for your child to help them cope with their resistance to change.

3. If you're a caregiver for an individual with Level 3 ASD, you might need to provide substantial support in daily activities, including communication and personal care.

Interesting Facts

• Level 1 ASD individuals often develop coping strategies that can mask their difficulties, leading to late diagnosis.

• Those with Level 2 ASD may have a noticeable delay in language skills and often exhibit repetitive behaviors that can interfere with daily functioning.

• Individuals with Level 3 ASD often require full-time assistance to perform basic tasks and may have very limited verbal skills.

• The transition to adulthood can be particularly challenging for those at Level 2 and Level 3, requiring structured support systems.

• Interventions tailored to the specific level of ASD can lead to significant improvements in quality of life and independence.