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Friday, 24 November 2023 HEALTH 27

Decoding Diversity:

Exploring Different Types of

Autism within the Spectrum

AUTISM Spectrum Disorder (ASD) encompasses a spec-
trum of neurodevelopmental disorders charac-

terized by challenges in social communication,
repetitive behaviors, and restricted interests.
While all individuals with ASD share certain
core features, the spectrum is broad and

diverse. Here are different types of autism,
often referred to as subtypes or variations.

Classic Autism (Autistic Disorder):

Individuals with classic autism typically
exhibit significant challenges in communi-
cation, and social interaction, and display
repetitive behaviors.

Speech and language development may be
delayed or impaired, and they might struggle
with non-verbal communication. It primarily affects girls and
involves a period of normal development followed by a loss

Asperger’s Syndrome: of purposeful hand skills and the emergence of repetitive
Often considered a milder form of autism, individuals with hand movements.
Asperger’s Syndrome usually have normal to above-average
intelligence. Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD):

Challenges in social interactions and communication are While not officially recognized as a subtype of autism, many
present, but there may be a more advanced language devel- individuals on the spectrum experience sensory processing
opment. challenges.
SPD involves atypical responses to sensory stimuli, such as

Pervasive Developmental Disorder-Not heightened sensitivity or diminished response to sensory
Otherwise Specified (PDD-NOS): input.
PDD-NOS is a term that was previously used to describe
cases that did not fit neatly into classic autism or Asperger’s High-Functioning Autism (HFA):

syndrome. HFA is not a distinct subtype but is often used to describe
Individuals with PDD-NOS might show some, but not all, of individuals on the autism spectrum with average or above-
the typical characteristics of autism. average intellectual abilities.
Those with HFA may struggle with social interactions and

Childhood Disintegrative Disorder (CDD): communication but may excel in specific areas of interest.
CDD is a rare condition where children develop typically
for the first few years of life, but then experience a severe Understanding the diverse range of autism subtypes is
loss of acquired skills in areas such as language, social, and essential for tailoring support and interventions to meet the

motor skills. unique needs of each individual.

Rett Syndrome: It’s important to note that the term “autism spectrum”
Although Rett Syndrome is a separate genetic disorder, it is reflects the wide variability in characteristics and strengths

often considered part of the autism spectrum. within the autism community.