Types of Autism: A Guide for Caregivers

Is there more than one type of autism?

Today doctors in the United States diagnose one condition: autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Under the diagnostic manual used since 2013 (the DSM-5), several conditions that used to be diagnosed separately are all part of the autism spectrum. People who already had a well-established diagnosis of autistic disorder, Asperger's disorder or PDD-NOS should be given a diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder.^[1]

The word spectrum matters. Autism affects how a person communicates, interacts with others, learns and behaves, and people with autism have a wide range of strengths, challenges and support needs.^[4] No two people on the spectrum are the same, which is why the diagnosis now describes how much support a person needs instead of naming separate types.

Older terms you may still hear

Many families, teachers and older records still use these names. They are helpful to know, but they are no longer separate diagnoses:

Autistic disorder

Sometimes called “classic autism.” Now diagnosed as autism spectrum disorder.^[1]

Asperger's syndrome

Used for people with autism traits who did not have a significant delay in early language or thinking skills. It is no longer a separate diagnosis, though some people still describe themselves this way.^[1]

PDD-NOS

“Pervasive developmental disorder – not otherwise specified” was used when a person had some, but not all, features of autism. Now part of autism spectrum disorder.^[1]

“High-” or “low-functioning”

Informal labels, not diagnoses. Many families and autistic adults prefer to talk about the support a person needs, which is how the levels below work.

The three levels of support

When autism is diagnosed, the clinician rates how much support the person needs. Two areas are rated separately: social communication and restricted or repetitive behaviors, so a person can be at a different level in each.^[1]

Level 1“Requiring support”

Without support, differences in communication and flexibility are noticeable and can make social situations, changes in routine or organizing daily tasks harder.

Level 2“Requiring substantial support”

Communication and behavior differences are clear even with support in place, and changes or new situations are often very hard.

Level 3“Requiring very substantial support”

Significant communication challenges and great difficulty coping with change affect most parts of daily life.

A level describes the support someone needs right now, not who they are or what they can achieve. Support needs can look different at home, at school and in new places.

What doctors look for

A diagnosis looks at two main areas.^[1]

1. Social communication and interaction

Back-and-forth conversation and sharing interests or feelings
Nonverbal communication, such as eye contact, gestures and facial expressions
Making, keeping and understanding relationships

2. Restricted or repetitive behaviors and interests

Repeated movements, speech or ways of using objects (for example lining up toys, hand flapping or rocking)
A strong need for sameness and routines, and distress at small changes
Very intense, focused interests
Being over- or under-sensitive to sounds, smells, tastes, textures or lights

Many people with autism also have other conditions, such as anxiety, attention or hyperactivity differences, sleep or eating differences, stomach problems like constipation, or seizures.^[2]

Early signs by age

The CDC lists these as possible signs in young children. A child with autism may not show all of them, and some children without autism show a few. Talk with your child's doctor about any concern.^[2]

9 monthsNot responding to their name; few facial expressions
12 monthsNot playing simple back-and-forth games like pat-a-cake; few or no gestures such as waving
15 monthsNot showing you things they like
18 monthsNot pointing to show you something interesting
24 monthsNot noticing when others are hurt or upset
36 monthsNot noticing or joining other children in play
48 monthsNot pretending during play

Screening and diagnosis

Ask about screening at well-child visits. The CDC notes that all children should be screened specifically for autism at their 18-month and 24-month checkups.^[3]
Autism can be diagnosed at any age, including in teens and adults. Signs usually appear in the first two years of life.^[4]
Early support helps. Getting services and supports early can benefit a person's long-term health and well-being.^[4]
If a child has clear social communication challenges but does not meet the criteria for autism, the doctor may look at a related condition called social (pragmatic) communication disorder.^[1]

Help for New Jersey families

Children under 3

New Jersey Early Intervention System. Free statewide referral line for infants and toddlers up to age three. Choose your county from the menu.^[6]

1-888-653-4463

Any age

Autism New Jersey Helpline. Free information and referrals for New Jersey families: treatment, special education, insurance, adult services and caregiver wellness. Weekdays 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM.^[5]

800-4-AUTISM Email

Birth through 21

New Jersey Autism Registry. When a child is registered by their health care provider, the family is connected to free county-based Special Child Health case management, which coordinates care and shares local resources.^[7]

Learn about the registry

Turning 21

Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD). Adult services generally start at 21. Apply after age 18 and at least six months before turning 21.^[8]

DDD transition guide

Arianna's Angels is here for local families too. Send us a message or call (973) 768-2480, and see our autism information sheet.

Please note: this page is general information gathered from the public sources below. It is not medical advice and cannot diagnose autism. Please talk with your child's doctor or a qualified specialist about any concerns.

Sources

Last reviewed October 22, 2026.