follow repetitive behavioral patterns, such as flipping objects, to the point that it affects their ability to function.face extreme difficulty in changing their daily activities or routine.find it difficult to join in imaginative play with peers.They will find it very difficult to use or understand verbal and nonverbal communication. Level 3: Requiring very substantial supportĪmong autistic people, those with level 3 autism will need the most support. Facing change might cause them to experience significant distress. People with level 2 autism may also find daily functioning difficult due to the challenges of coping with change. have difficulty understanding or using nonverbal communication, including facial expressionįor example, they may face away from the person with whom they are communicating.
Social challenges can make holding a conversation very difficult.Įven with support, the person may find it hard to communicate coherently, and they are more likely to respond in ways that neurotypical people consider surprising or inappropriate. People who meet the level 2 criteria need more support than those with level 1 autism. How does it feel to have high functioning autism? Read about one person’s experience.