Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) has become a common term today, but most are not aware that the term “spectrum” describes a set of developmental disorders that have underlying difficulty in communication, behavior, and sensory issues. Whereas today these are now categorized together as a single condition of ASD according to DSM-5, in the past, there were five separate subtypes of disorders. Becoming familiar with these five disorders can allow a better understanding of how autism appears differently in people, and how individualized intervention can make a significant difference.
We at We Care Support are committed to equipping individuals and families with the tools and information they need to manage neurodiversity confidently. Here is a summary of the five disorders that were formerly grouped together in what was called the autism spectrum:
- Autistic Disorder (Classic Autism)
Autistic Disorder, also known as “classic autism,” is what most people commonly have in mind when they think of the word “autism.” People diagnosed with this condition generally show:
- Significant language delays
- Compromised social interactions
- Repetitive activities or restricted behaviors
- Sensory sensitivities
Classic autism tends to be diagnosed before a child is three years old. Individuals with this condition have difficulty making verbal and nonverbal communication, making everyday living and social relationships more difficult to accomplish without assistance.
- Asperger’s Syndrome
Asperger’s Syndrome was formerly considered a mild form of autism. Asperger’s individuals have average to above-average intelligence and do not have language delays, but they generally:
- Struggle interpreting social clues
- Display restricted and highly focused interests
- Prefer routines and sameness
- Experience sensory sensitivities
Because language remains unimpaired, Asperger’s Syndrome may not become apparent until increased demands are placed on being a group member, for example throughout school years, or during early adulthood. Individuals who have Asperger’s are quite capable in specialized areas of school or creative work but have trouble making interpersonal connections.
- Pervasive Developmental Disorder – Not Otherwise Specified (PDD-NOS)
Sometimes referred to as “atypical autism,” PDD-NOS was used when a child exhibited some but not all features of classic autism or Asperger’s. It was applied to children who:
- Exhibit mild to moderate communication and social challenges
- Do not qualify as having full-blown classic autism
- Exhibit fewer repetition behaviors
It was a “catch-all” diagnosis, frequently used when autism symptoms were present but failed to neatly fit into other categories. It was specifically prevalent in children who presented late onset, or who had irregular patterns of development.
- Childhood Disintegrative Disorder (CDD)
A rare but serious form of autism, Childhood Disintegrative Disorder occurs when a child has a dramatic loss of skills following a period of normal development. Children who have CDD:
- Develops normally until 2–4 years old
- Suddenly lose prior learned language, motor, and social skills
- May have seizures or other neurological complications
The regression can be quite distressful to families. As its cause remains undetermined, CDD emphasizes how complex, even unpredictable, autism spectrum disorders are.
- Rett Syndrome
Rett Syndrome is a rare developmental neurological disorder that nearly exclusively occurs in females. Once considered a disorder of the autism spectrum, it has recently been identified as a unique genetic condition. Symptoms are:
- Typical early progress with subsequent slowed development
- Impairment of purposeful hand functions
- Motor control difficulty and speech
- Respiratory irregularities and seizures
Rett Syndrome, although reclassified, has much in common with autism’s behavioral as well as communication problems, which explains why discussions of the overall spectrum include it so frequently.
Why This Classification Changed
These five subtypes were consolidated into a single diagnosis when the DSM-5 was published in 2013: Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). The reason was to capture more effectively, the entire range of symptoms and severity, providing a more tailored, adaptable diagnostic model.
Rather than focusing on which “type” of autism a person has, today’s approach considers how the symptoms affect daily functioning and what level of support is needed. This model emphasizes a spectrum of needs, ranging from minimal assistance to intensive, round-the-clock support.
Individualized Support to Every Person
Whether a person presents in a more classical autism spectrum disorder or falls closer to what was traditionally diagnosed as Asperger’s, remember that every individual with autism is different. That is where We Care Support enters the picture.
We deliver thorough autism assessments, individualized care plans, and empathetic therapeutic services in response to each client’s unique set of talents and needs. We have extensive practice in early identification of developmental differences and providing tools children, adolescents, and adults require to reach their full potential.
Let We Care Support Guide You Through Your Life Journey
If you are, or a loved one, experiencing signs of autism, or if you are not sure where to start, We Care Support can assist you. Recognizing the intricacy of the autism spectrum is the beginning of effective care and guidance. Get in touch today to arrange for an autism assessment in Orlando, FL. and discover how we can collaborate with you to ensure successful, sustained well-being. Contact We Care Support and begin your path to clarity and guidance.
