Disclaimer: As a future Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) currently pursuing my master’s degree, I am passionate about sharing insights and information related to parenting, autism and homeschooling based on my personal experiences and research. However, the content shared on this blog is not intended to substitute professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Parenting is a deeply personal journey, and while I strive to provide valuable insights, every family and situation is unique. Readers are encouraged to consult with qualified professionals for personalized guidance tailored to their specific needs and circumstances.
Maybe your child has recently received a diagnosis, including a level indicating their level of “severity”. While I don’t believe that a level is a full picture of what a child with autism is dealing with, understanding the levels of autism is crucial for providing tailored support and accommodation that meets the unique needs of your child. So, let’s chat about it, and unravel the layers of complexity together.
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) shows up as a wide range of characteristics and traits, with individuals experiencing varying degrees of severity in their symptoms and challenges. The concept of “levels of autism” refers to the degree of support individuals may require across different domains of functioning, including communication, social interaction, and behavior. By categorizing autism into different levels, clinicians and educators can better understand an individual’s strengths, challenges, and support needs to facilitate appropriate interventions and services.
At the core of the autism spectrum are three main levels, often referred to as Level 1, Level 2, and Level 3. These levels are based on the level of support individuals require to navigate daily life and participate in social, educational, and vocational activities. While each level represents a continuum of support needs, it’s essential to recognize that autism is a complex and dynamic condition, and individuals may exhibit characteristics that span multiple levels simultaneously.
Exploring the Levels of Autism
Level 1 Autism
Level 1 autism, also known as “mild” autism or high-functioning autism (previously known as Asperger’s), typically involves challenges in social communication and interaction, as well as restricted interests and repetitive behaviors. Individuals at this level may require minimal support to navigate social situations and daily routines, but may still face difficulties in understanding and responding to social cues and nuances.
Social Communication and Interaction:
- Difficulty initiating social interactions.
- Challenges with understanding nonverbal cues, such as facial expressions and gestures.
- Limited reciprocity in social interactions, preferring solitary activities.
Restricted Interests and Repetitive Behaviors:
- Engages in repetitive behaviors or rituals, such as hand-flapping or lining up objects.
- Displays intense interests in specific topics or subjects.
- Demonstrates inflexible adherence to routines or schedules.
Level 2 Autism
Level 2 autism, sometimes referred to as “moderate” autism, encompasses more pronounced difficulties in social communication and interaction, as well as increased repetitive behaviors and sensory sensitivities. Individuals at this level may require substantial support to navigate social settings, communicate effectively, and manage daily tasks and routines. While they may possess functional language skills, they may struggle with more complex social interactions and relationships.
Social Communication and Interaction:
- Marked impairment in initiating and sustaining social relationships.
- Difficulty in understanding and responding to social cues and norms.
- Limited verbal and nonverbal communication skills, with repetitive speech patterns or echolalia.
Restricted Interests and Repetitive Behaviors:
- Engages in repetitive behaviors that interfere with daily functioning.
- Demonstrates inflexible adherence to specific interests or routines.
- Difficulty transitioning between activities or changes in routine.
Level 3 Autism
Level 3 autism, also known as “severe” autism, represents the highest level of support needs within the spectrum. Individuals at this level typically exhibit significant challenges in social communication and interaction, as well as marked impairments in adaptive functioning and sensory processing. They may require intensive support and supervision across all areas of daily living, including personal care, communication, and behavioral regulation.
Social Communication and Interaction:
- Severe impairment in social communication, with minimal or no attempts to engage socially.
- Limited or absent use of verbal and nonverbal communication.
- Lack of interest in forming social relationships or interacting with others.
Restricted Interests and Repetitive Behaviors:
- Engages in highly repetitive and self-injurious behaviors.
- Demonstrates extreme rigidity and resistance to changes in routine or environment.
- Displays severe sensory sensitivities and aversions.
Embracing Neurodiversity and Individuality
These characteristics provide a glimpse into how autism may present at different levels of severity. It’s important to remember that autism is a spectrum disorder, and individuals may exhibit a combination of traits that vary in intensity and impact on daily life. Approaching the levels of autism with sensitivity and understanding, recognizing that each individual’s experience is unique and multifaceted is so important. While the levels provide a framework for understanding support needs, they do not fully capture the richness and complexity of the autistic experience. Embracing neurodiversity means celebrating the diverse strengths, talents, and perspectives of individuals across the autism spectrum, and advocating for inclusive practices that promote acceptance, dignity, and respect for all.