From the Guidelines
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is classified into three levels based on the amount of support needed, with Level 1 requiring support, Level 2 requiring substantial support, and Level 3 requiring very substantial support, as indicated by the most recent evidence 1.
Levels of Autism and Their Signs and Symptoms
The levels of autism are characterized by the following signs and symptoms:
- Level 1 ("Requiring Support"): difficulty initiating social interactions, atypical responses to social overtures, and inflexibility in behavior that interferes with daily functioning
- Level 2 ("Requiring Substantial Support"): marked deficits in verbal and nonverbal communication, limited initiation of social interactions, and inflexibility of behavior that frequently interferes with functioning
- Level 3 ("Requiring Very Substantial Support"): severe deficits in verbal and nonverbal communication, minimal response to social interactions, and extreme difficulty coping with change Common symptoms across all levels include challenges with social communication, restricted interests, repetitive behaviors, and sensory sensitivities, though these vary in intensity, as noted in the study by 1.
Importance of Early Intervention
Early intervention is crucial regardless of level, with therapies like Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), speech therapy, occupational therapy, and social skills training being beneficial, as supported by the evidence from 1. These levels help clinicians determine appropriate support needs rather than indicating severity, as autism presents uniquely in each person with different combinations of strengths and challenges. The most recent study 1 highlights the importance of considering co-occurring medical and mental health conditions, such as ADHD, anxiety, and depression, when assessing and treating individuals with ASD.
Key Considerations
When assessing and treating individuals with ASD, it is essential to consider the following:
- The heterogeneous nature of ASD, with differences in symptoms and severity between individuals, as noted in the study by 1
- The importance of early identification and intervention, as highlighted in the study by 1
- The need to consider co-occurring medical and mental health conditions, as supported by the evidence from 1 and 1 By taking a comprehensive and individualized approach to assessment and treatment, clinicians can provide effective support and improve outcomes for individuals with ASD, ultimately reducing morbidity, mortality, and improving quality of life.
From the Research
Levels of Autism
The levels of autism, also known as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), are characterized by deficits in social communication and interaction, and the presence of restricted and repetitive patterns of behavior and interests 2.
Signs and Symptoms
The signs and symptoms of autism include:
- Deficits in social communication and interaction
- Restricted and repetitive patterns of behavior and interests
- Repetitive behaviors, such as hyperactivity, aggression, self-injurious behavior, irritability, and lability of mood 3
- Stereotypies, which are repetitive, purposeless actions 4
Associated Behaviors
Associated behaviors of autism include:
- Irritability
- Hyperactivity
- Aggression
- Self-injurious behavior
- Sensory processing difficulties
Treatment and Intervention
Treatment and intervention for autism may include:
- Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), which has strong evidence of effectiveness in helping people with autism achieve goals 2, 5
- Medication, such as aripiprazole, which may be effective in reducing irritability and hyperactivity in children and adolescents with autism 3, 4
- Occupational therapy, which may incorporate ABA principles to expand practice and improve outcomes 5
Clinical Evaluation
Clinical evaluation for autism begins with developmental screening, followed by referral for a definitive diagnosis, and includes screening for comorbid conditions 6.