Understanding Different Types of Autism in Adults and Kids

Autism is a complex and diverse condition, often described as a spectrum due to its wide range of symptoms and severity levels. Knowing the types of autism can help individuals, families, and professionals better understand the unique challenges and strengths each person may have. 

Whether you're curious about types of autism in adults, curious about rare types of autism, or wondering about types of autism symptoms, this guide aims to provide clear, thorough insights. Let’s explore the spectrum, from widely recognized forms to less common presentations.

1. Classic Autism (Autistic Disorder)

What Is Classic Autism?

Classic Autism, historically called Autistic Disorder, refers to what many typically think of when they hear “autism.” It involves noticeable challenges in social interaction, communication, and repetitive behaviors. Individuals with classic autism may have delayed or absent speech and require significant support in daily life.

Symptoms

• Difficulty with verbal and nonverbal communication
  
  
• Limited eye contact and social engagement
  
  
• Repetitive body movements, such as rocking or hand-flapping
  
  
• Preference for routines and resistance to change
  
  
• Sensory sensitivities to sounds, light, or textures
  
  

Who Is Affected?

Identified often in early childhood, classic autism varies in severity but typically involves substantial support needs.

2. Asperger’s Syndrome (Now Level 1 Autism Spectrum Disorder)

Previously classified separately, Asperger’s syndrome is now recognized as part of the autism spectrum under Level 1 ASD. Individuals with Asperger’s usually have average to above-average intelligence and do not have significant delays in language development.

Characteristics

• Challenges with social interactions, such as understanding social cues
  
  
• Intense focus on specific interests or hobbies
  
  
• Difficulty with changes in routine or adapting to new environments
  
  
• May have clumsy motor skills or unusual speech patterns (monotone or pedantic)
  
  

Symptoms in Adults and Girls

Adults with Asperger’s may learn coping strategies but still face social and sensory challenges. Types of autism in girls, including those with Asperger’s traits, can be harder to identify as girls often mask symptoms better, leading to later diagnosis.

3. Pervasive Developmental Disorder – Not Otherwise Specified (PDD-NOS)

What Is PDD-NOS?

PDD-NOS was a diagnostic category used for individuals displaying autistic traits but not fully meeting criteria for classic autism or Asperger’s. It is essentially a milder or atypical presentation on the spectrum.

Key Features

• Some social and communication challenges
  
  
• Mixed symptom profile, possibly mild-to-moderate in severity
  
  
• May have uneven development in skills, like delayed speech or motor abilities
  
  
• Sometimes less rigid in behavior compared to other types
  
  

Current Classification

With the DSM-5 update, PDD-NOS is no longer a separate diagnosis but included under ASD.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JUc5YchucpU 

4. Childhood Disintegrative Disorder (CDD)

Rare but Severe Autism Type

Childhood Disintegrative Disorder is a rare form where a child develops typically for at least two years but then loses previously acquired skills, especially in language, social interaction, and motor skills.

Symptoms

• Sudden regression in communication and social skills
  
  
• Loss of bowel/bladder control
  
  
• Increased repetitive behaviors or distress
  
  
• Often requires intensive support due to rapid decline
  
  

Prevalence and Considerations

CDD is exceedingly rare, with a prevalence of about 1.7 per 100,000 children. Early intervention is crucial to support affected children and families.

5. Rett Syndrome: A Rare Type of Autism

What Is Rett Syndrome?

Rett syndrome primarily affects girls and involves genetic mutation affecting brain development. Unlike other types, Rett syndrome involves a period of normal development followed by severe regression.

Symptoms Include:

• Loss of purposeful hand use, replaced by repetitive hand movements
  
  
• Cognitive and motor impairments
  
  
• Breathing irregularities and seizures
  
  
• Severe communication difficulties
  
  

Distinguishing Factors

Though it shares features with autism, Rett syndrome is a distinct genetic disorder requiring specialized care.

6. High-Functioning Autism (HFA)

High-Functioning Autism describes individuals on the spectrum with normal or above-average intelligence but autism-related social and sensory challenges. This overlaps with what was once called Asperger’s.

Traits

• Strong verbal skills but difficulties in social communication
  
  
• Focused interests and routines
  
  
• Sensory sensitivities and anxiety
  
  
• Challenges with executive functioning (organization, planning)

7. Different Types of Autism in Girls

Unique Presentation in Females

Girls may display autistic traits differently than boys, leading to underdiagnosis or misdiagnosis. Common characteristics include:

• Better social masking skills, mimicking peers to hide difficulties
  
  
• Intense but socially accepted interests (e.g., animals, literature)
  
  
• Emotional sensitivity and internalized behaviors rather than externalizing irritability
  
  
• Subtle social communication difficulties
  
  

Recognizing these types of autism symptoms in girls helps ensure timely diagnosis and tailored support.

Types of Autism Symptoms: Core Areas

1. Social Challenges: Difficulty understanding social cues, maintaining conversations, or building relationships.

2. Communication Differences: Delayed speech, unusual intonation, echolalia (repeating words), or limited gestures.

3. Repetitive Behaviors: Repetitive motions, insistence on routines, intense interest in specific topics.

4. Sensory Processing Issues: Hypersensitivity or hyposensitivity to sounds, light, textures, or pain.

Types of Autism in Adults: Recognition and Diagnosis

Adults are increasingly being diagnosed with autism, including those who were missed in childhood. Common adult challenges include:

• Social interaction difficulties in workplaces or relationships
  
  
• Sensory sensitivities impacting daily living
  
  
• Executive function and emotional regulation struggles
  
  
• Co-occurring conditions like anxiety or ADHD
  
  

Diagnosis in adulthood involves detailed developmental history, clinical interviews, and standardized assessments.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nZhPjpb5UGI 

Rare Types of Autism

Beyond Rett Syndrome and CDD, several genetic syndromes with autistic features exist:

• Angelman Syndrome: Characterized by intellectual disability, speech impairment, and happy demeanor.
  
  
• Fragile X Syndrome: The most common inherited cause of intellectual disability, often overlapping with autism signs.
  
  
• Tuberous Sclerosis: Causes benign tumors in the brain and other organs, frequently associated with autism.

How Milestone Achievements Can Help

At Milestone Achievements, we offer specialized Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy tailored for individuals across the autism spectrum. Our team understands the diversity within the types of autism and customizes interventions tailored to the unique strengths and needs of children and adults alike.

• Individualized Programs: Structured to address specific symptoms and skill deficits.
  
  
• Experienced Therapists: Skilled in evidence-based ABA practices for effective growth.
  
  
• Family-Centered Approach: Engaging families as active therapy partners to support progress at home and community.
  
  
• Inclusive Environment: Support for a wide range of autism types, including rare forms.
  
  

We help clients unlock potential and improve quality of life with compassionate, professional care.

Conclusion

Understanding the types of autism, from classic autism to rare forms like Rett syndrome, is key to recognizing unique needs and finding appropriate support. Autism presents differently in adults, girls, and individuals across the spectrum, making personalized diagnosis and therapy essential.

At Milestone Achievements, we provide individualizedABA therapy programs in Georgia that are designed to meet the unique needs of every child, adolescent, and adult on the spectrum. Our team partners with families, educators, and professionals to deliver compassionate, evidence-based support that fosters growth and independence. 

Discover how personalized therapy can make a lasting difference. Contact us today!

Sources:

https://www.webmd.com/brain/autism/autism-spectrum-disorders

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Autism

https://www.oxfordcbt.co.uk/different-types-of-autism/

https://www.autismspeaks.org/autism-symptoms

https://www.integrityinc.org/what-are-the-5-types-of-autism/