In modern-day DSM-5 criteria, autism spectrum disorder, or ASD, is classified by levels as opposed to types. For starters, the levels of autism are specified as autism level 1, 2, and 3. As a parent or caretaker of a child with ASD, you will find it to be very helpful to know exactly what level of autism your child is experiencing.
Why?
The reason is simple. Early diagnosis and understanding of the level of autism helps you find the best support, life plans, and therapies to raise your child in a fun, fulfilling way. Every child has his or her own beautiful talents to share with the world, and placing them in the right environment to grow these talents helps them thrive in their own unique way.
In this guide, we will dive deeper into each level of autism so you can be fully aware of the support and resources available to you and your family.
What is Autism and Why Are There Different Levels?
Autism is a complex neurodevelopmental diagnosis that interferes with how a person communicates, interacts with others, and experiences the world. According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), published by the American Psychiatric Association, ASD is defined by persistent interferences in social communication and social interaction, along with repetitive patterns of behavior, interests, or activities. These core features can present in many different ways, which is why autism is specified as different levels.
General Characteristics of ASD
For children and adults with ASD, noticeable interferences in nonverbal social communication skills, like using gestures, tone of voice, or facial expressions, are common. Furthermore, individuals with ASD often display repetitive behaviors or have highly focused interests. These repetitive patterns might include repeating certain movements, insisting on specific routines, or becoming deeply interested in particular topics.
The degree and combination of these characteristics can vary widely, which is why the DSM-5 emphasizes the importance of individualized autism assessment using standardized diagnostic criteria.
Understanding the basics of ASD as outlined in the DSM-5 helps parents and caregivers recognize the signs and seek appropriate support. By appreciating the diversity within the autism diagnosis, families can better advocate for their child’s unique needs and blossom their strengths.
Understanding Each Level of Autism: What the DSM-5 Classifications Mean
To begin, the 3 autism levels focus on 2 main areas: social communication and repetitive behaviors. Each level describes the amount of support needed, but does NOT define the child’s potential or worth. The levels simply show parents, experts, and therapists the style and level of support the child may need to be able to live a confident life.
The DSM-5 levels are determined by ASD characteristic intensity and the amount of support individuals require. Let’s take a look at each autism level 1, 2, and 3.
Autism Level 1: Requiring Support
Children with Level 1 autism need some support in their daily lives. They typically have developed some verbal communication but struggle with social interactions and may have interfering experiences when initiating conversations or responding appropriately to social cues. Many children at this level attend mainstream schools with accommodations, as long as the proper support systems are in place.
Historically, terms like Asperger’s syndrome were traditionally used for individuals that fell under this specification. These diagnoses are now included under Level 1 autism, following changes in the DSM-5.
Autism Level 2: Requiring Substantial Support
Level 2 autism involves more noticeable interferences in social communication and behavior. Children at this level may have more limited verbal communication or use simple phrases, and due to that often have limited social interactions. Some children with Level 2 autism may rely more on nonverbal communication to express themselves. Social interactions are often quite limited and they typically prefer more structured environments and consistent routines.
Autism Level 3: Requiring Very Substantial Support
Children with Level 3 autism need the most intensive support across all areas of daily living. They may have minimal verbal communication, often using single words or gestures, and often give minimal response to social overtures. Level 3 autism usually corresponds with very limited interest in social interactions and there are greater interferences in communication and social functioning.
According to recent research published in Frontiers in Psychiatry, early intensive intervention can significantly improve outcomes even for children requiring very substantial support.
All Children Are Unique
Recognizing the signs of autism level 1, 2, and 3 can help you understand your child’s needs and advocate for appropriate support. Each level presents differently, and children may show varying abilities across different settings.
Furthermore, it’s important to note that some symptoms of autism may overlap with other diagnoses like ADHD, so careful assessment is important to ensure an accurate diagnosis.
At the end of the day, it is important to focus on each child’s own personality, behaviors, and potential for independence, regardless of the level of autism.
How ABA Therapy Adapts to Each Level of Autism
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy isn’t one-size-fits-all. The most effective programs tailor their approach based on the specific level of autism and individual needs. At Bierman Autism Centers, our playful learning framework merges evidence-based ABA principles with play-based learning to create engaging, effective interventions for children across all autism levels.
Personalized Approaches for Each Level
For children with Level 1 autism, ABA therapy often focuses on social skills training, emotional regulation, and flexibility. Sessions might include peer interaction practice, problem-solving strategies, and coping mechanisms for unexpected changes. The goal is to support kids with autism in building independence and addressing specific challenge areas.
Children with Level 2 autism typically benefit from more structured ABA programming that includes communication development, behavioral support, and systematic skill-building. Therapy might incorporate picture exchange systems, social stories, and intensive practice of daily living skills.
Level 3 interventions prioritize fundamental communication, safety skills, and reducing interfering behaviors. These comprehensive programs often include family training to ensure consistency across all environments.
The Importance of 1:1 Therapist-to-Child Ratios
Regardless of level, individualized attention makes a significant difference in outcomes. A 1:1 therapist-to-child ratio ensures that each child receives personalized attention tailored to their specific needs and learning style. This approach allows for immediate feedback, consistent reinforcement, and rapid adjustment of strategies based on the child’s responses.
Next Steps for Parents: When to Seek Evaluation and What Questions to Ask
As mentioned before, early evaluation and intervention are game-changers. The CDC recommends developmental screening at regular pediatric visits, with specialized autism screening if concerns arise.
Find the Right Assessment Team
Look for multidisciplinary teams that include developmental pediatricians, psychologists, and speech-language pathologists. These professionals can provide comprehensive assessments that determine not just whether your child has autism, but also their specific support needs and strengths.
Questions to Ask Potential ABA Providers
When researching ABA therapists, ask about their experience with each specific autism level, their approach to family involvement, and how they measure progress. For example, ask these questions:
- What is your approach to family training and involvement?
- How do you measure and report progress?
- What qualifications do your therapists have?
Great therapists will offer transparent communication about goals, methods, and expected outcomes.
Move Forward with Hope and Evidence-Based Support
Level specification is just the beginning! Understanding each level of autism prepares you and your family to begin a beautiful, supportive journey to help your child’s talents blossom. These levels provide a starting point for creating support systems, but they don’t define your child’s potential or limit their possibilities. With proper support and evidence-based therapies like ABA, children across all levels can develop essential skills and feel confident in their lives.
At Bierman Autism Centers, we understand that every child’s path is different. Our experienced team specializes in creating individualized treatment plans that meet children exactly where they are, using our proven playful learning framework to make learning engaging and effective. We’re here to support your family with evidence-based interventions, comprehensive family training, and the hope that comes from seeing real progress.
If you’re ready to take the next step, we invite you to contact our team. Together, we can create a plan that honors your child’s unique strengths and addresses their specific needs. We’re here to walk alongside you every step of the way.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the difference between autism levels 1, 2, and 3?
The levels describe how much support a child needs in daily life. Level 1 requires some support, Level 2 requires substantial support, and Level 3 requires very substantial support across communication, social interaction, and daily activities.
Can my child’s autism level change over time?
Yes, autism levels can change with proper intervention and support. Children may move to requiring less support as they develop skills through therapy, education, and maturation, though some may continue to need consistent support throughout their lives.
How do experts determine the level of autism?
Professionals assess your child’s current functioning in social communication and repetitive behaviors using DSM-5 criteria. They evaluate how much support your child needs in daily activities, social situations, and managing their behaviors and routines.
Will children with Level 1 autism be able to live independently as an adult?
Many children with Level 1 autism can live independently as adults with proper support systems in place. They often attend mainstream schools with accommodations and develop the skills needed for independent living through appropriate interventions.
How does ABA therapy differ for each autism level?
ABA therapy is personalized based on your child’s level and individual needs. Level 1 focuses on social skills and flexibility, Level 2 emphasizes structured communication and behavioral support, while Level 3 prioritizes fundamental communication and safety skills.
