What Is Level 2 Autism? Key Traits, Strengths, and Support Tips
Autism, often referred to as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), represents a broad and diverse range of neurodevelopmental differences. It’s called a “spectrum” because it encompasses a wide variety of traits, strengths, challenges, and support needs that are unique to each person.
No two autistic people are exactly alike, even when they share the same diagnostic labels.
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The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th Edition (DSM-5), classifies autism into three diagnostic levels to describe the level of support an individual may need.
These levels—Level 1, Level 2, and Level 3—are designed to help clinicians and caregivers understand how much assistance someone may need for daily activities. Individuals with Level 2 autism are categorized as requiring “substantial support” due to significant challenges in social communication, repetitive behaviors, and sensory sensitivities.
- Level 1 — requiring support
- Level 2 — requiring substantial support
- Level 3 — requiring very substantial support
However, it’s crucial to remember that autism is not defined by its challenges alone. Every autistic person brings their own unique way of perceiving, processing, and interacting with the world.
The DSM-5 framework is a diagnostic tool. It is not a one-size-fits-all description. Understanding and celebrating the individuality of each autistic person is essential to providing meaningful and neuro-affirming support.
What Is Level 2 Autism?
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is diagnosed based on specific traits outlined in the DSM-5.
These traits include challenges with social communication, such as understanding social cues or maintaining conversations, and repetitive behaviors, like stimming (e.g., hand-flapping or rocking) or having intense, specific interests.
Sensory challenges, like sensitivity to noise, light, or certain textures, are also part of the diagnostic criteria.
To receive a diagnosis, these traits must significantly impact daily life and have been present since early childhood.
Level 2 autism refers to individuals who need “substantial support” to manage daily life. This means their communication, behavior, and sensory processing difficulties are more noticeable than those at Level 1 and often interfere with their ability to function independently.
Even with support systems in place, they may struggle with changes in routine, forming relationships, or participating in typical activities without assistance.
How a Diagnosis of Level 2 Autism is Made
Diagnosing Level 2 autism involves a thorough evaluation by trained professionals to assess the child’s development, behaviors, and support needs.
The key steps include:
Developmental Screenings
Pediatricians or primary care providers often conduct routine screenings to monitor developmental milestones. If concerns arise, they may recommend further evaluation.
However, as a parent, if you have concerns, you should bring them to your child’s attention even if they haven’t brought up any concerns. You know your child better than anybody else.
Comprehensive Evaluations
A team of specialists, such as developmental pediatricians, psychologists, speech therapists, or occupational therapists, typically conducts a detailed assessment.
This evaluation includes interviews with parents or caregivers, child behavior observations, and standardized tests to assess communication, social skills, and sensory processing.
Application of DSM-5 Criteria
Diagnosticians use the DSM-5 criteria to determine whether the child meets the diagnostic requirements for Autism Spectrum Disorder.
For Level 2 autism, the child’s challenges in social communication, repetitive behaviors, and sensory sensitivities must require “substantial support” to navigate daily life.
Additional Assessments
Professionals may assess co-occurring conditions, such as language delays, anxiety, or attention difficulties, which can influence the child’s overall support needs.
A diagnosis of Level 2 autism helps professionals and caregivers better understand the child’s specific needs and identify the most effective strategies and resources to support them.
It is essential to remember that the diagnostic process is not about labeling but about understanding and providing appropriate care.
Autism Signs to Look for in Children
Parents and caregivers often look for signs that might indicate autism, particularly when they notice differences in their child’s development.
While every autistic child is unique, some behaviors and traits are commonly associated with Level 2 autism, including:
- Difficulty Maintaining Eye Contact: Children may avoid direct eye contact or be uncomfortable during interactions.
- Challenges with Social Interactions: They might struggle to initiate or maintain conversations, interpret social cues like facial expressions or tone of voice, or form peer relationships.
- Noticeable Stimming Behaviors: Stimming, such as hand-flapping, rocking, or repeating phrases (echolalia), is often more prominent and may occur as a way of regulating emotions or for sensory input.
- Heightened Sensory Sensitivities: Children may react strongly to certain sensory experiences, such as loud noises, bright lights, certain textures, or strong smells, which can cause discomfort or distress.
- Difficulty Adapting to Changes: Even minor changes in routines or expectations can lead to anxiety, distress, and meltdowns, making predictability and structure especially important.
These signs can present themselves in different ways, and you may notice them in varying degrees. They should be considered alongside the child’s overall development and unique traits.
Key Traits of Level 2 Autism
It’s important to remember that autism is not a one-size-fits-all diagnosis. Traits vary widely from one autistic person to the next, even within the same diagnostic level.
While some people with Level 2 autism may share similar challenges or behaviors, their experiences and expressions of these traits are uniquely their own.
The following are examples of common characteristics associated with Level 2 autism, but not everyone will exhibit them all or show them in the same way.
Social and Communication Traits
People with Level 2 autism often face challenges in understanding social cues, such as facial expressions, tone of voice, or body language, which can make social interactions more difficult for them.
They may struggle to maintain conversations, often reciprocating questions and emotions in ways that neurotypicals might not expect. Their vocabulary might be limited but is often used in context, reflecting their understanding of specific situations.
Repetitive and Restrictive Behaviors
Behaviors like stimming—such as hand-flapping, rocking, or spinning—are common in individuals with Level 2 autism.
They may use echolalia, which is when an autistic individual repeats or echoes words, sounds, or phrases that they have heard.
Adapting to changes in routines may also be challenging, with even small disruptions causing distress, discomfort, or anxiety.
Sensory Processing Challenges
Sensory differences are another key trait of Level 2 autism and can manifest as hypersensitivity or hyposensitivity across different sensory modalities.
For example, some people might be overwhelmed by loud noises, bright lights, or specific textures, while others might seek intense sensory input, such as deep pressure or spinning.
These sensory experiences can significantly impact daily activities, social interactions, and emotional regulation.
The Strengths and Unique Traits of Individuals with Level 2 Autism
The challenges of being autistic are often the main focus during the diagnostic process, but people with level 2 autism also have many incredible strengths.
If you have an autistic child in your life, it’s important to focus on their strengths far more than their challenges. By recognizing and nurturing their unique abilities, you can help them build confidence, develop their potential, and thrive in their own way.
Many excel in areas like attention to detail, showing remarkable focus and precision in their work or hobbies. They often have strong memories for specific interests, which can lead to deep expertise in certain subjects.
Creative thinking is another common trait, with many demonstrating unique and innovative ways of viewing problems or ideas. They’re also honest, trustworthy, and realistic thinkers.
All these strengths may be why people with autistic traits are more likely to become scientists and engineers.
If you have an autistic child in your life, it’s important to focus on their strengths far more than their challenges. By recognizing and nurturing their unique abilities, you can help them build confidence, develop their potential, and succeed in their own way.
Celebrating neurodiversity means recognizing and valuing these strengths as they contribute to a broader understanding of how diverse minds process the world. Embracing these unique perspectives helps build a more inclusive and supportive society.
How to Support Individuals with Level 2 Autism
Providing meaningful support for individuals with Level 2 autism involves understanding their unique needs and creating environments that accommodate them, helping them feel secure and succeed.
Ideally, support should be tailored across different settings, including at home, at school, and in the community.
At Home
- Create a Predictable Routine: Establishing a consistent daily routine can reduce anxiety and help individuals feel more comfortable and prepared for their day.
- Use Visual Schedules and Social Scripts: Visual tools like picture schedules or written checklists make daily tasks easier to manage. Social scripts can help explain new or unfamiliar situations step by step, making transitions less overwhelming.
At School
- Sensory-Friendly Environments: Providing access to quiet corners or sensory rooms helps students maintain baseline by regulating their emotions and energy levels.
- Assistive Technology: Tools and AAC devices like PECS or text-to-speech software, noise-canceling headphones, and other communication devices can improve communication and focus.
- Customized Learning Plans: Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) or 504 plans should address the student’s specific needs, incorporating strategies such as extended time for assignments, frequent breaks, or visual aids to support learning.
In the Community
- Access to Inclusive Activities: Participation in programs like adapted sports leagues or sensory-friendly events allows individuals to engage in enjoyable activities while feeling understood and supported.
- Sensory-Friendly Spaces: Public places, like libraries, museums, and theaters, offering sensory-friendly accommodations create welcoming environments for individuals with sensory sensitivities.
Advocacy for Public Understanding
Educating the community about sensory differences and the needs of autistic individuals promotes greater acceptance and inclusion.
Advocacy efforts can include raising awareness, encouraging inclusive practices, and supporting policies that ensure accessible environments for everyone.
By providing tailored support and fostering understanding, caregivers, educators, and communities can create spaces where individuals with Level 2 autism feel valued and capable of reaching their personal goals.
Common Misconceptions About Level 2 Autism
Misunderstandings about Level 2 autism are common and create barriers to providing meaningful support.
Here are two of the most common misconceptions.
Myth: Everyone with Level 2 Autism Is Non-Verbal or Fully Dependent
It’s often assumed that people with Level 2 autism can’t speak or are entirely reliant on others for daily tasks.
While some individuals may have limited verbal communication, many can express themselves using spoken words, communication devices, or other methods.
Similarly, support needs can vary greatly. Some people need substantial help in certain areas, like managing routines or sensory challenges, but can be more independent with proper accommodations and support.
Myth: Autism Levels Are Fixed and Objective
The DSM-5 levels (Level 1, Level 2, and Level 3) are designed to describe the amount of support someone might need, but they aren’t a permanent label or a precise measurement of ability.
Support needs can change over time or depending on the situation. For example, a person might require more help in a new or stressful environment but manage well in a familiar, supportive setting.
The levels are a general framework, not a rigid definition of someone’s abilities or challenges.
Understanding these misconceptions helps highlight the individuality of each person with Level 2 autism and emphasizes the importance of personalized support.
Level 2 autism is a part of the diverse autism spectrum, highlighting the individuality and unique experiences of autistic people. While the DSM-5 framework provides a helpful starting point for understanding the challenges and support needs associated with Level 2 autism, it is crucial to look beyond labels and recognize the person behind the diagnosis.
Every autistic individual has their own combination of strengths, interests, and challenges, and they deserve tailored, neuro-affirming support that respects their individuality.
By focusing on their abilities, creating accommodating environments, and advocating for greater understanding, we can help ensure that autistic individuals are valued for who they are.
Whether you are a parent, educator, caregiver, or community member, your efforts to support, celebrate, and understand autistic individuals make a meaningful difference in building a more inclusive and compassionate world.
