What are the 7 Types of Autism?
Autism, also known as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), is a neurological and developmental disorder that affects communication, social interaction, and behavior. Over the years, the understanding and classification of autism have evolved, and the latest diagnostic criteria recognize four distinct levels of severity, rather than distinct types of autism. However, for the purpose of this article, we will explore the historical and current classifications of autism, which are often referred to as the "7 types of autism."
The Historical Classification
Prior to 2013, autism was classified into several subtypes, including:
- Autistic Disorder: Characterized by significant delays in language development, social interaction, and cognitive development.
- Childhood Disintegrative Disorder: Characterized by a sudden loss of acquired skills, such as language, social skills, and bowel or bladder control.
- Pervasive Developmental Disorder (PDD-NOS): Characterized by delays in social interaction, language development, and cognitive development, but not as severe as Autistic Disorder.
- Asperger Syndrome: Characterized by significant difficulties with social interaction and repetitive behaviors, but with average or above-average intelligence and language skills.
- Rett Syndrome: A rare genetic disorder characterized by a loss of purposeful movement, cognitive impairment, and communication difficulties.
The Current Classification
In 2013, the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) replaced the above classification with a new system that focuses on the severity of symptoms rather than specific subtypes. The current classification system recognizes four levels of severity:
- Level 1: Minimal Support: Characterized by mild symptoms and minimal support needs.
- Level 2: Support: Characterized by moderate symptoms and support needs.
- Level 3: Substantial Support: Characterized by severe symptoms and substantial support needs.
- Level 4: Very Substantial Support: Characterized by extreme symptoms and very substantial support needs.
The Relationship Between the Historical and Current Classifications
While the current classification system does not recognize distinct types of autism, the historical classification system provides valuable insights into the diversity of autism. The four levels of severity recognized in the current system can be thought of as a refinement of the historical classification system.
- Level 1 can be seen as a refinement of Asperger Syndrome, which was characterized by average or above-average intelligence and language skills.
- Level 2 can be seen as a refinement of PDD-NOS, which was characterized by delays in social interaction, language development, and cognitive development, but not as severe as Autistic Disorder.
- Level 3 can be seen as a refinement of Autistic Disorder, which was characterized by significant delays in language development, social interaction, and cognitive development.
- Level 4 can be seen as a refinement of Childhood Disintegrative Disorder and Rett Syndrome, which were characterized by severe cognitive and physical impairments.
In Conclusion
In conclusion, while there are no distinct types of autism, the historical classification system provides valuable insights into the diversity of autism. The current classification system recognizes four levels of severity, which can be seen as a refinement of the historical classification system. Understanding the differences and similarities between the historical and current classifications can help individuals with autism, their families, and healthcare providers better understand and support individuals with autism.
Additional Resources
- American Academy of Pediatrics: "Autism Spectrum Disorder: Caring for Children with Autism"
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: "Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)"
- National Institute of Mental Health: "Autism Spectrum Disorder"
References
- American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (5th ed.). Arlington, VA: American Psychiatric Publishing.
- National Institute of Mental Health. (2020). Autism Spectrum Disorder. Retrieved from https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/autism-spectrum-disorders-asd/index.shtml
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