Different Types of Autism: Understanding the Spectrum

Autism isn’t a one-size-fits-all diagnosis. It’s a spectrum, meaning it can look completely different from one person to the next. Depending on the manifestation of different types of autism helps explain why people with autism are not a monolith. Some autistic people love socializing, while others prefer solitude. Some are nonverbal, while others are highly articulate. Some experience intense sensory sensitivities, while others seek out sensory stimulation. This variety is why we use the term Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)—because no two autistic people experience it the same way.

But are there different types of autism? Let’s break it down in a way that makes sense.

Are There Different Types of Autism?

The short answer: Yes and no.

Before 2013, autism was broken into separate diagnoses like Asperger’s Syndrome, Pervasive Developmental Disorder-Not Otherwise Specified (PDD-NOS), and Classic Autism (or Kanner’s Syndrome). 

But when the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) was updated, all of these categories were grouped under one umbrella: Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).

So while doctors no longer diagnose individuals with different “types” of autism, the spectrum remains diverse, with different types of autism traits that vary in intensity and presentation.

What Are the 5 Different Types of Autism?

Even though autism is now classified under one diagnosis, people still use terms from before the DSM-5 update to describe different types of autism. These distinctions help explain how autism manifests in different ways.

1. Classic Autism (Kanner’s Syndrome)

This is the form of autism that was first described by Dr. Leo Kanner in 1943 and is what many people traditionally think of when they hear “autism.”

Common Traits:

• Delayed speech and communication challenges
• Sensory sensitivities (bright lights, loud noises, texture aversions)
• Difficulty with social interactions
• Repetitive behaviors (rocking, flapping, spinning, echolalia)

2. Asperger’s Syndrome

Asperger’s Syndrome was previously considered a separate diagnosis, often referred to as “high-functioning autism.” People with Asperger’s tend to have strong verbal skills but may struggle with social interactions and sensory sensitivities.

Common Traits:

• Strong special interests and deep focus on specific topics
• Social difficulties (trouble reading body language or tone of voice)
• Sensory sensitivities
• High intelligence but struggles with executive functioning (organization, planning, transitions)

Although Asperger’s is no longer an official diagnosis, many people still identify with the term.

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

This was the “catch-all” category for individuals who had some, but not all, traits of classic autism or Asperger’s Syndrome.

Common Traits:

• A mix of autism-like traits, but less severe
• Speech or motor skill delays
• Social difficulties that don’t fit classic autism or Asperger’s profiles
• Developmental patterns that don’t follow a clear trajectory

4. Childhood Disintegrative Disorder (CDD)

This is a rare form of autism where a child develops typically for a few years and then loses skills, such as language and motor abilities.

Common Traits:

• Sudden regression in speech and motor skills
• Loss of previously developed social abilities
• Anxiety, withdrawal, and changes in behavior

5. Rett Syndrome

Though Rett Syndrome was once classified under autism, it is now considered a genetic neurological disorder that primarily affects girls.

Common Traits:

• Loss of purposeful hand movements (repetitive hand-wringing)
• Severe motor impairments
• Delayed speech or loss of verbal abilities
• Breathing irregularities

Even though different types of autism are now classified under ASD, understanding these categories helps highlight how diverse the spectrum truly is.

What Are the Three Levels of Autism?

Since autism is now diagnosed under one spectrum, doctors use three levels to describe the level of support an individual may need.

Level 1 – Requiring Support (Previously Asperger’s or High-Functioning Autism)

People with Level 1 autism can often function independently but may struggle with social interactions, changes in routine, or sensory sensitivities.

Common Traits:

• Difficulty understanding social cues or maintaining conversations
• Struggles with emotional regulation
• Sensory sensitivities that may cause discomfort
• Strong special interests

Support Needs:

• Social skills training
• Sensory accommodations
• Help with transitions and executive functioning

Level 2 – Requiring Substantial Support

Individuals at this level have more noticeable communication and behavioral differences. They may need structured support in daily life.

Common Traits:

• Significant difficulty with social interactions
• Speech and language delays (or nonverbal communication)
• Sensory processing challenges that impact daily activities
• Repetitive behaviors or distress when routines are disrupted

Support Needs:

• Speech therapy
• Occupational therapy for sensory processing
• Behavioral support and structured routines

Level 3 – Requiring Very Substantial Support

People with Level 3 autism have severe communication and behavioral challenges and often need full-time support.

Common Traits:

• Limited or no verbal speech (may rely on assistive communication devices)
• Intense sensory sensitivities
• Difficulty with basic self-care tasks (eating, dressing, hygiene)
• High distress when routines are disrupted

Support Needs:

• Full-time caregiving assistance
• Alternative communication methods (AAC devices, sign language)
• Intensive therapy for speech, motor skills, and behavioral support

Understanding the Autism Spectrum

Autism is not a checklist—it’s a spectrum of experiences. No two autistic individuals are exactly alike, which is why understanding the different types of autism helps build a more inclusive, accepting world.

Some autistic individuals need minimal support, while others require full-time care. Some thrive in highly structured environments, while others flourish in creative, flexible settings. 

Recognizing and respecting these differences is essential for ensuring that autistic people receive the resources and accommodations they need.

So, whether someone identifies with a past label like Asperger’s or fits within the Level 1, 2, or 3 classification, the message is the same: Autism is not a limitation—it’s simply a different way of experiencing the world.

Get Started

Our team is here to make getting started easy every step of the way. The first step is filling out our contact form & scheduling a free consultation to chat with our team.