Dear Kimberlie,
My niece was recently diagnosed with autism, and I’ve been learning as much as I can to support her. I keep hearing people talk about “levels” of autism or how the spectrum varies from person to person. Are there really different types or levels of autism? What does that mean for my niece and how she’ll experience the world?
– Ms. Vanessa, Chicago, IL
dear mS. vanessa,
Your niece is lucky to have such a loving and curious aunt! Autism is often described as a spectrum, which means there’s no one-size-fits-all experience. The term reflects the incredible diversity among individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Let’s dive into what this means, including the idea of levels and how these distinctions help us understand and support individuals like your niece.
Autism as a Spectrum
When we talk about autism as a spectrum, we’re acknowledging that it encompasses a wide range of abilities, challenges, and experiences. Some individuals may need significant support in daily life, while others live independently and may even excel in certain areas, like academics or specialized skills.
The spectrum isn’t linear—it’s not about being “less autistic” or “more autistic.” Instead, think of it as a collection of traits and characteristics that vary in intensity and impact. These might include communication, social interaction, sensory processing, and repetitive behaviors.
The Concept of Levels
The idea of “levels” in autism comes from the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5), which categorizes autism into three levels based on the amount of support an individual needs. Here’s what they mean:
Why Levels Aren’t the Whole Story
While levels provide a framework for understanding the support someone might need, they don’t capture the full complexity of an individual’s experience. Autism is dynamic—someone might need more support in certain areas (like social skills) but less in others (like academics).
For example, your niece might excel in school but struggle in noisy or crowded environments due to sensory sensitivities. Levels don’t define her—they’re just a tool to help tailor support to her needs.
The Evolution of Autism Diagnoses
In the past, autism was divided into subtypes like Asperger’s Syndrome, Pervasive Developmental Disorder-Not Otherwise Specified (PDD-NOS), and Autistic Disorder. These terms are no longer used in diagnostic criteria. Today, all these diagnoses fall under the umbrella of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), reflecting the idea that autism is one broad spectrum rather than separate conditions.
This shift has helped emphasize that all individuals with autism deserve understanding and support, regardless of where they fall on the spectrum.
What This Means for Your Niece
Ms. Vanessa, your niece’s place on the spectrum is as unique as she is. Her diagnosis doesn’t define her—it’s just one part of who she is. What matters most is understanding her strengths, challenges, and the kind of support she needs to thrive.
Here are a few things to keep in mind:
A Message of Understanding
Autism is beautifully diverse, and understanding the spectrum helps us see individuals for who they truly are—not through labels or levels, but through their unique experiences. By asking these questions and seeking to support your niece, you’re making a meaningful impact in her life.
If you or your family have more questions about autism or want to learn more about the spectrum, I’m always here to help. Keep being the loving, supportive aunt that your niece deserves.
Warmly,
Kimberlie
P.S. If you or any of your colleagues have any additional questions about autism, feel free to reach out to me via email at DearKimberlie@AppliedBehaviorAssociates.com. Let’s keep the conversation going. Together, we can and will make a difference!
Autism as a Spectrum
When we talk about autism as a spectrum, we’re acknowledging that it encompasses a wide range of abilities, challenges, and experiences. Some individuals may need significant support in daily life, while others live independently and may even excel in certain areas, like academics or specialized skills.
The spectrum isn’t linear—it’s not about being “less autistic” or “more autistic.” Instead, think of it as a collection of traits and characteristics that vary in intensity and impact. These might include communication, social interaction, sensory processing, and repetitive behaviors.
The Concept of Levels
The idea of “levels” in autism comes from the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5), which categorizes autism into three levels based on the amount of support an individual needs. Here’s what they mean:
- Level 1: Requiring Support Individuals at this level may struggle with social interactions or flexibility in behavior but can function relatively independently with some support. Example: A person might have difficulty initiating conversations or adapting to changes in routine but can manage most daily tasks.
- Level 2: Requiring Substantial Support This level describes individuals who have more pronounced challenges with communication and behavior. Example: A person may use limited verbal communication and require assistance with adapting to changes or managing sensory sensitivities.
- Level 3: Requiring Very Substantial Support Individuals at this level need significant assistance in daily life. They may have limited communication, require help with basic tasks, and experience intense sensory or behavioral challenges. Example: A person might use alternative communication devices and need constant support to navigate their environment.
Why Levels Aren’t the Whole Story
While levels provide a framework for understanding the support someone might need, they don’t capture the full complexity of an individual’s experience. Autism is dynamic—someone might need more support in certain areas (like social skills) but less in others (like academics).
For example, your niece might excel in school but struggle in noisy or crowded environments due to sensory sensitivities. Levels don’t define her—they’re just a tool to help tailor support to her needs.
The Evolution of Autism Diagnoses
In the past, autism was divided into subtypes like Asperger’s Syndrome, Pervasive Developmental Disorder-Not Otherwise Specified (PDD-NOS), and Autistic Disorder. These terms are no longer used in diagnostic criteria. Today, all these diagnoses fall under the umbrella of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), reflecting the idea that autism is one broad spectrum rather than separate conditions.
This shift has helped emphasize that all individuals with autism deserve understanding and support, regardless of where they fall on the spectrum.
What This Means for Your Niece
Ms. Vanessa, your niece’s place on the spectrum is as unique as she is. Her diagnosis doesn’t define her—it’s just one part of who she is. What matters most is understanding her strengths, challenges, and the kind of support she needs to thrive.
Here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Celebrate Her Strengths: Whether she’s passionate about art, numbers, or animals, encourage her to explore her interests and build confidence.
- Support Her Challenges: If she struggles with social interactions or sensory sensitivities, work with her family and professionals to create strategies that help her navigate these areas.
- Be Patient and Curious: Autism is a journey, not a destination. Keep learning about her unique needs and adapting as she grows.
A Message of Understanding
Autism is beautifully diverse, and understanding the spectrum helps us see individuals for who they truly are—not through labels or levels, but through their unique experiences. By asking these questions and seeking to support your niece, you’re making a meaningful impact in her life.
If you or your family have more questions about autism or want to learn more about the spectrum, I’m always here to help. Keep being the loving, supportive aunt that your niece deserves.
Warmly,
Kimberlie
P.S. If you or any of your colleagues have any additional questions about autism, feel free to reach out to me via email at DearKimberlie@AppliedBehaviorAssociates.com. Let’s keep the conversation going. Together, we can and will make a difference!
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