The DSM-5 classifies autism into three levels based on the amount of support needed. These levels help clinicians, families, and educators understand an individual s needs, though it is important to remember that support needs can change over time.

Level 1: Requiring Support

Individuals at Level 1 can generally communicate verbally but struggle with initiating social interactions and may appear to have decreased interest in social engagement. They show inflexible behavior, difficulty switching between activities, and organizational challenges. Many previously received an Asperger s syndrome diagnosis.

Level 2: Requiring Substantial Support

Level 2 involves marked deficits in verbal and nonverbal social communication. Social impairments are apparent even with supports. Restricted interests are obvious to casual observers, and difficulty with change causes noticeable distress.

Level 3: Requiring Very Substantial Support

Level 3 involves severe deficits in social communication, very limited speech, minimal response to social overtures, and extreme difficulty coping with change. Restricted behaviors significantly interfere with functioning across all settings.

Why Levels Are Not the Whole Picture

An individual s level can vary across different skills and may change over time with effective intervention. ABA therapy helps individuals at all levels develop skills. Contact Treetop ABA Therapy for individualized support.