If you’re wondering what level 2 autism means, you’ve come to the right place. In this blog post, we’ll explain what the diagnosis entails and what you can expect if your child is diagnosed with Autism spectrum disorder at this level.
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Introduction
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a range of neurodevelopmental conditions that can cause social, communication, and behavioral challenges. People with ASD often have difficulty understanding or responding to social cues, and may engage in repetitive behaviors or interests.
ASD is a spectrum disorder, which means that symptoms and severity can vary from person to person. Some people with ASD may need very little support, while others may require more significant assistance.
Level 2 autism is used to describe individuals who fall somewhere in the middle of the ASD spectrum. People with level 2 autism typically have more challenges than those with level 1 autism, but fewer challenges than those with level 3 autism.
What is Level 2 Autism?
Level 2 autism is a diagnosis given to individuals who fall within a certain range on the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS) and Autism Diagnostic Interview-Revised (ADI-R). The ADOS and ADI-R are two of the most commonly used tools for diagnosing autism.
Individuals who are diagnosed with level 2 autism typically have moderate to severe symptoms that can cause significant impairment in their ability to function in daily life. Symptoms may include difficulty with communication, social interaction, and repetitive behaviors. Many people with level 2 autism will also have co-occurring mental health conditions such as anxiety or depression.
Treatment for level 2 autism typically includes a combination of behavioral interventions, speech and occupational therapies, and medications. Some individuals with level 2 autism may also benefit from using assistive technology devices such as iPads or communication apps.
Causes of Level 2 Autism
There is no one cause of autism. Research suggests that autism develops from a combination of genetic and nongenetic, or environmental, influences. These influences appear to increase the risk that a child will develop autism.
Although the exact cause of autism is unknown, there are many theories about what might contribute to the development of this condition. Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) can sometimes be associated with other medical conditions or chromosome abnormalities. However, most children with ASD do not have any known medical conditions or genetic syndromes (disorders that are caused by changes in genes or chromosomes).
A number of different genes have been identified as being associated with an increased risk for ASD. However, most individuals with ASD do not have changes in these particular genes. Instead, it’s thought that changes in many different genes may interact with each other and with nongenetic, or environmental, influences to contribute to the development of ASD.
Symptoms of Level 2 Autism
Some People With Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) can be correctly identified as having the condition when they are toddlers. In other cases, it may not be possible to make a diagnosis until early adulthood.
ASD is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects social interaction, communication, and behavior. The symptoms are present from early childhood and tend to persist into adulthood.
People with ASD often have difficulty with social interactions and may seem uninterested in other people. They may avoid eye contact and prefer to be alone. They may also have difficulty understanding or using spoken language and may resort to repetitive speech or gibberish.
People with ASD often have repetitive behaviors, such as rocking, spinning, or hand flapping They may also become fixated on certain objects or activities and become very upset if their routine is disrupted.
In mild cases of ASD, symptoms may be so mild that they are not noticed until a person is older, such as when they start school and have difficulty making friends or interacting with classmates. In more severe cases, symptoms may be obvious from an early age.
Diagnosing Level 2 Autism
Level 2 autism, also called high-functioning autism or Asperger’s Syndrome, is the mildest form of autism. It can be difficult to diagnose because symptoms vary greatly from person to person and can be mistaken for other conditions, such as ADHD.
People with level 2 autism often have above-average intelligence and normal language skills. However, they may have difficulty with social skills and nonverbal communication, such as making eye contact or reading facial expressions. They may also have obsessive interests and repetitive behaviors.
People with level 2 autism often need less support than those with other forms of autism, but they may still require specialized services and accommodations in order to succeed in school and work. With early diagnosis and intervention, people with level 2 autism can lead happy, productive lives.
Treatments for Level 2 Autism
There is no single treatment for Autism spectrum disorder and the best approach depends on the individual’s needs. However, there are a number of evidence-based treatments that can help people with ASD manage their symptoms and improve their functioning.
Behavioral interventions are one type of treatment that can be very effective for people with ASD. These interventions focus on teaching new skills and helping people to change problematic behaviors. ABA (applied behavior analysis) is one type of behavioral intervention that has been shown to be particularly helpful for people with ASD.
Other types of treatment that may be beneficial for people with ASD include speech therapy, occupational therapy, and medication. Medication can be used to treat specific ASD symptoms, such as social anxiety or hyperactivity. It is important to work with a qualified physician to determine whether medication is right for an individual with ASD.
Living with Level 2 Autism
Asperger’s Syndrome, or Level 2 Autism on the Autism spectrum, is considered to be “milder” than other forms of autism. Individuals with Asperger’s often have fewer issues with speech and tend to be of average or above average intelligence. However, living with Asperger’s can still present challenges. Many people with Asperger’s have difficulty reading social cues and may struggle to make friends or maintain relationships. Others may have obsessive interests in a particular subject and may become fixated on certain routines or rituals. It is important to note that everyone with Asperger’s is unique and will experience the condition in different ways. There is no “cure” for Asperger’s, but there are many therapies and support groups available to help people with the condition live happy, fulfilling lives.
Parenting a Child with Level 2 Autism
If your child has been diagnosed with level 2 autism, it means that they fall somewhere in the middle of the autism spectrum. While they may not have as many challenges as a child with level 1 autism, they still require more support than a child without autism.
There are a few things you can do to help your child with level 2 autism thrive. First, it’s important to understand that every child is different, so what works for one child may not work for another. You know your child best, so trust your instincts and do what works for them.
Second, it’s important to build a support system of family and friends who can help you and your child. This support system can offer advice, help with childcare, or just be there to listen when you need to vent.
Third, consider seeking out therapy for your child. Applied behavior analysis (ABA) therapy has been shown to be effective in helping children with autism learn new skills and improve communication. There are also many other types of therapy that can help children with autism, so talk to your doctor or therapist about what would be best for your child.
Parenting a child with level 2 autism can be challenging, but it’s also rewarding. By taking things one day at a time and building a supportive network, you can help your child reach their full potential.
Resources for Families with Level 2 Autism
There are many resources available for families with children with level 2 autism. Here are some of the most popular:
-The Autism Society of America offers support, resources and advocacy for individuals with autism and their families.
-The Autism Speaks website has a lot of information on level 2 autism, including treatments, research and support services.
-The National Autism Association provides support and resources for families affected by autism.
Conclusion
Overall, level 2 autism is considered to be milder than level 1 autism, but more severe than level 3 autism. Individuals with level 2 autism may have difficulty with social interactions and communication, and may need some support in order to function independently.
Janice is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst. She graduated from the University of British Columbia with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Special Education. She also holds a Master of Science in Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) from Queen’s University, Belfast. She has worked with and case managed children and youth with autism and other intellectual and/or developmental disabilities in home and residential setting since 2013.