Autism Spectrum Disorder Level 1 involves differences in social communication, interpersonal relationships, and behavioural flexibility. Individuals generally require support, particularly when navigating complex social situations, changes in routines, or unfamiliar environments.

Symptoms:

• Difficulty interpreting social cues or non-verbal communication

• Challenges initiating or maintaining social relationships

• Preference for predictable routines and familiar environments

• Sensory sensitivities to sounds, lighting, textures, or other stimuli

• Intense or highly focused interests

• Difficulty adapting to unexpected changes or transitions

• Challenges with emotional regulation or expressing emotions

Autism Spectrum Disorder Level 2 is characterized by more pronounced differences in social communication and behavioural flexibility, with individuals requiring substantial support in everyday functioning and interpersonal environments.

Symptoms:

• Significant difficulties with verbal and non-verbal communication

• Limited initiation of social interactions or difficulty responding to others

• Repetitive behaviours or restricted interests that affect daily functioning

• Strong adherence to routines and significant distress when routines change

• Heightened sensory sensitivities or sensory-seeking behaviours

• Difficulty adapting to new environments or unexpected situations

• Challenges with emotional regulation and managing overstimulation

• Greater support needs involving communication, independence, or daily activities

Autism Spectrum Disorder Level 3 is characterized by substantial differences in social communication and behavioural flexibility, with individuals requiring very substantial support across multiple areas of daily functioning.

Symptoms:

• Severe difficulties with verbal and non-verbal social communication

• Very limited initiation of social interactions or responses to others

• Limited spoken language or reliance on alternative communication methods

• Highly repetitive behaviours or restricted patterns of interest

• Significant distress associated with changes in routines or environments

• Pronounced sensory sensitivities or differences in sensory processing

• Significant difficulties adapting to unfamiliar situations

• Extensive support needs involving communication and everyday activities