Autism
Autism is a neuro-developmental condition that may look different in different people depending on age and the brain’s makeup. Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) causes significant social, communication, and behavioral challenges.
Types
The medical community used to categorize autism into five different types. This categorization is now out of date. In 2013, the American Psychiatric Association updated The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). This changed the way providers diagnose autism.
If someone has signs or symptoms of possible autism spectrum disorder, a medical provider evaluates their symptoms under two main categories:
- The way they interact and communicate with other people
- Repetitive behaviors, interests, and activities
Experts can also separate a diagnosis of ASD into different levels. The level depends on how much support an individual needs day to day:
- Level one requires support. People have challenges interacting with others. They may also have trouble transitioning between activities. With support, these impairments may not be noticeable to others.
- Level two requires substantial support. Even with support, social challenges are still apparent. People may also have behaviors that affect their basic daily functions.
- Level three requires very substantial support. Someone’s social and communication challenges affect all areas of life. People in this category can have very limited social interactions.