What are the Different Types of Autism?

When you first hear that someone you love has autism, you might feel overwhelmed by all the terms and types being discussed. 

While autism is now known as a spectrum rather than a distinct category, knowing about different types of autism can help you better understand your loved one's unique needs and strengths.Remember that every person with autism is unique. There’s a common misconception that most cases of autism are the same, but that’s simply untrue, especially considering that 1 in 36 people are living with autism.

Types of autism are just tools to help people understand and provide better support. They don't define who someone is or limit what they can achieve!

What is Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)?

Autism Spectrum Disorder, or ASD, reflects the ways in which some people's brains develop differently. This affects how they experience and interact with the world around them. 

Think of it like a rainbow — just as a rainbow has many different colors that blend together, autism exists on a spectrum with many different characteristics and ways it can affect someone's life.

People with autism might experience differences in:

• How they communicate and interact with others
• How they process sensory information (like sounds, lights, or textures)
• How they learn and think 
• Their interests and daily routines

No two people with autism are exactly alike. 

Some might require more help with daily activities, while others might need less support. Some might be verbal (speak using words), while others might communicate in alternative ways. Some might have intense interests in specific topics, while others might focus on various aspects of life.

What's most important to understand is that autism isn't an illness that needs to be "fixed" — it's simply a different way of experiencing the world. 

Types of Autism Spectrum Disorder

While autism is now understood as a single spectrum, knowing about the different types that were once recognized helps many families understand their loved ones' diagnoses. 

These previous categories helped doctors and families describe the ways autism can present itself. Let's explore each type that was recognized before 2013, when autism classification changed to better reflect current understanding.

Classic Autism (Autistic Disorder or Kanner’s Autism)

Classic autism, sometimes called Kanner's autism, was considered the most common form of autism. 

Children with this type of autism often show signs before age three. 

They might have delayed speech, prefer to play alone or find comfort in specific routines. Many have unique ways of moving, such as rocking or flapping their hands. This helps them feel comfortable and process their surroundings.

Early support makes a big difference for children with signs of classic autism. This might include speech therapy, occupational therapy, and behavioral support. Each child's plan should focus on their specific needs and build on their strengths. 

Many children with signs of classic autism develop strong skills and find ways to navigate the world that work for them.

Asperger's Syndrome

People with signs of what used to be called Asperger's syndrome often have strong language skills and average or above-average intelligence. 

They might have deep knowledge about their favorite topics and speak with expertise about them. Alternatively, they may find it challenging to understand social cues or maintain back-and-forth conversations.

Unlike classic autism, people with signs of Asperger's typically don't have early language delays. 

Today, Asperger's isn't diagnosed separately but is recognized as part of the autism spectrum. Many people still identify with this term to help describe their experiences and connect with others who share similar traits.

Pervasive Developmental Disorder-Not Otherwise Specified (PDD-NOS)

PDD-NOS was often called "atypical autism." 

It was used to describe someone who showed some signs of autism but didn't fit exactly into a category. It was a custom-fit diagnosis that helped people get support when they needed it. People with PDD-NOS might have had some, but not all, of the typical signs of autism.

Because PDD-NOS covered such a wide range of experiences, it was tricky to know exactly what support would help most. This led to the current spectrum approach, which focuses more on each person's specific needs rather than fitting them into a category. 

Childhood Disintegrative Disorder (CDD)

CDD is rare and different from other types of autism. Children develop normally until about ages 2-4. Then, they begin to lose skills they've already learned, such as speaking or using the bathroom. 

This can be very concerning for families who notice these sudden changes in their child's development.

Because CDD is so rare, affecting about 1-2 children in 100,000, families often feel isolated. Understanding this condition helps parents get the right support and connect with others who share similar experiences. 

Early intervention and consistent support can help children with CDD maintain skills and develop new ones.

Rett Syndrome

Rett syndrome is caused by a specific genetic change, usually on the MECP2 gene. 

It mainly affects girls and has its own unique pattern of development. Unlike other types of autism, doctors can test for Rett syndrome through genetic testing. This helps families get specific information about their child's condition.

Children with Rett syndrome often start with standard development and then begin losing skills between 6-18 months. They might have trouble with hand movements, walking, and speaking. Since the genetic cause is known, doctors can provide more targeted support. 

While Rett syndrome presents significant challenges, many families find that understanding its unique nature helps them access specialized care and support services.

How Types of Autism Classifications Changed After 2013

In 2013, doctors and researchers made a significant change in how they classify autism. 

Instead of the five separate types previously discussed, they moved to what is now called "Autism Spectrum Disorder" or the “DSM-5 Changes.” 

Think of it like changing from separate boxes to a sliding scale — this new method better shows how autism traits can vary from person to person.

Under this new system, people receive a diagnosis of ASD with a support level from 1 to 3. These levels help describe how much support a person might need in their daily life:

• Level 1: "Requiring Support"
• Level 2: "Requiring Substantial Support"
• Level 3: "Requiring Very Substantial Support"

Why the Change Was Made

The change happened because doctors realized that the former categories had too much overlap. 

Many people showed signs from multiple categories, making it hard to decide which diagnosis fit best. The new spectrum approach focuses more on each person's unique needs rather than trying to fit them into a specific category.

For example, someone might need Level 1 support for communication but require Level 2 support for daily living skills. This system is more flexible and helps families and doctors create better support plans that fit each person's specific situation.

What This Means for People with Previous Diagnoses

If your child or loved one received a diagnosis before 2013, don't worry — the change in classification doesn't invalidate the previous diagnosis. 

Many people still use terms like "Asperger's" to describe their experiences, and that's okay. The most important thing is that these changes have made it easier for people to get the right support based on their individual needs.

Healthcare providers can help translate older diagnoses into the current system, ensuring that people continue getting appropriate support and services. 

Remember, the goal of these changes is to improve understanding and support — not to take away anyone's identity or access to services.

Co-Occurring Conditions

Many people with autism also experience other conditions that can affect their daily lives. In fact, between 73% and 81% of adults with ASD are living with another psychiatric condition. 

Understanding these co-occurring conditions helps families and healthcare providers create better, more complete support plans. Let's explore some common ones and how they can be managed effectively.

Common Co-Occurring Challenges

It's quite common for people with autism to experience additional challenges. Some of the most frequent ones include:

• ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder)
• Anxiety
• Depression
• Sensory processing differences
• Sleep problems
• Gastrointestinal issues 
• Epilepsy

Approaches to Managing Multiple Diagnoses

Having multiple conditions doesn't mean life has to be overwhelming. 

Healthcare providers often use what's called an integrated approach, which means looking at how all conditions affect each other and creating a complete care plan that addresses everything together. 

This might include working with several different specialists who communicate with each other about supportive care.

The best support plans usually combine different types of therapy and strategies. For example, occupational therapy can help with both sensory challenges and daily living skills, while speech therapy might address communication and social anxiety. 

Behavioral therapy can be particularly helpful in addressing multiple challenges at once, such as helping someone manage both ADHD symptoms and autism-related behaviors.

Creating consistent daily routines is another powerful tool. 

These routines can help manage multiple challenges simultaneously — such as having a calming bedtime routine that eases anxiety and sleep issues. 

Some families find that using visual schedules or taking regular sensory breaks throughout the day can help manage several challenges at once.

Everyone's combination of conditions is unique, and what works best for one person might not work for another. The key is working with your healthcare team to find the right mix of support for you or your loved one. 

With patience and the right support strategy, many people successfully manage multiple conditions while leading fulfilling lives.

Support and Interventions for All Types of Autism

Every person with autism deserves support to help them thrive in their own unique way. 

While different parts of the spectrum might require varying levels of support, there are many proven ways to help people with autism develop skills and navigate daily life successfully.

Behavioral and Developmental Therapies

There are several types of therapy that can help people with autism develop important skills and manage challenges. 

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is a widely used approach that breaks down skills into smaller, manageable steps. While ABA has helped many people, it's important to find a therapist who focuses on your loved one's comfort and independence, not just behavioral changes.

Another helpful therapy is Developmental, Individual-difference, Relationship-based (DIR) therapy, also known as Floortime. This approach follows the child's lead during play to build communication and social skills. 

Some families find success with TEACCH (Treatment and Education of Autistic and Related Communication Handicapped Children), which creates structured learning environments that play to autism's strengths.

Occupational therapy and speech therapy are also valuable tools. 

Occupational therapists help with daily living skills and sensory processing, while speech therapists work on both verbal and non-verbal communication. 

Many people benefit from a combination of these approaches, tailored to their specific needs and goals.

Educational and Social Support

Success in school and social situations often requires some adjustments, but with the right support, people with autism can thrive in these environments. Many schools offer Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) that may include:

• Quiet spaces for breaks when feeling overwhelmed
• Visual schedules to help with transitions
• Extra time for tests or assignments
• Support from special education teachers
• Help with social skills in natural settings

Outside of school, social skills groups can provide a safe place to practice friendship skills with peers who share similar experiences. 

Some communities offer autism-friendly events and activities where families can feel comfortable and accepted. Many people also benefit from having a support person or aide who can help them navigate challenging situations.

The key to successful support is remembering that everyone with autism is different. It's okay to try several approaches and adjust them until you find what works best for you or your loved one!

Help Your Loved Ones Living with Autism Thrive

No matter where your child is on the spectrum, they deserve the best possible support to help them thrive.

Using skill-building therapies and other support systems, see how Sevita’s experts help children living with autism every step of the way.

Discover more about how you can support children living with autism today!