Assigning Support Levels
For purposes of medical or psychological evaluation results, a "DSM-5 clinical diagnosis" categorizes an autism diagnosis into 3 levels.
What Evaluators Do...
Since 2013, the clinical definition of autism has been based on the level of support an individual requires, categorized as levels 1 through 3, with level 3 indicating the highest support needs. Please see the levels displayed in the gray triangle.
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The American Psychiatric Association is responsible for establishing this definition and periodically releases a manual known as the "DSM," with the latest version being "DSM-5." Medical professionals trained to diagnose autism use these guidelines to assess whether an individual falls within the autism spectrum.
The two main symptoms are differences in social communication and repetitive behavior or restricted interests. For more details, please refer to the "Psychological" or "Clinical" definition on the "Autism HOME" page.
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From a neurodiversity perspective, labeling autism as a disorder is considered offensive to some because it implies that being autistic is inherently abnormal. Please refer to the page on "Speaking about Autism" for more details on this issue and the page discussing "Labels".
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​Many autistic individuals with intense symptoms and their caregivers feel that the term "severe" does not adequately describe their unique needs. They advocate for a separate recognition of autism that highlights the profound challenges they face, especially those with communication difficulties that hinder self-advocacy. Being grouped under the broad umbrella of autism may offer inclusivity, but there is a call for targeted attention to the significant issues faced by the "severe" subset. These individuals may encounter communication struggles, social barriers, sensory sensitivities, repetitive behaviors, behavioral challenges, and cognitive impairments that can greatly impact their daily lives and relationships. Tailored support and interventions are crucial to help those with severe autism thrive and achieve their full potential.
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Numerous opinions abound regarding the advocacy of all forms of autism. Respect is paramount for all parties involved. Progress is achieved when varied viewpoints cover the full spectrum of symptoms in a child, teen, or adult
“It is now our charge to explain that regardless of how obvious our autism is to others, it is equally present to the person living it. It is our job to correct those who reject some for being too “high-functioning” or forget those who are more visibly challenged. It is our privilege to speak aloud for those who can’t and to have compassion for those who can. To the research community, educators, scientists, psychologists, and - most important - to regular folks like you and me... the best answer isn’t that we’re Aspie or that we’re autistic.
The best answer is...
​...we aren’t any one word.
​We are the spectrum.”
Level One
Requires Support
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Level Two
Requires Substantial Support
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Level Three
Requires Very Substantial Support
The multi-colored infinity symbol has been considered the symbol for neurodiversity - and the golden infinity symbol is used for autism because of the notion that autism cannot be fully explained in just 3 levels that are clinically designated. It is suggested that autism presents in an infinite number of ways. Yet, there are indeed common threads to be examined. Finding similarities between presentations of autism is helpful for those overcoming barriers. Return to the autismU.org homepage to read more about definitions and classification viewpoints of autism. Go to the neurodiverseU.org homepage to learn about additional neurodivergences, such as ADHD or dyslexia, that fall under the concept of "neurodiversity".
Exploring the strategies for aiding the three levels above could potentially prompt an examination of backing individuals with autism through a "strengths-based approach." This methodology concentrates on highlighting a person's positive attributes and will be expanded upon in subsequent sections. Applyling to individuals across the spectrum, this approach allows them to cultivate talents in areas where they naturally excel or have honed through dedicated effort. By steering clear of underscoring shortcomings in autistic individuals, it places emphasis on their inherent gifts, interests, and acquired skills, rather than measuring them against neurotypical counterparts.
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If you've met one person with autism, you've met one person with autism.
- Dr. Stephen Shore
Famous Autism Quotes
neurodiverseU.org launch - January 2025