Introduction
If you’re a parent, educator, or professional in
Fredericksburg, Virginia, you may have searched:
What are the different types of autism?
The answer has changed over time.
Today, autism is officially diagnosed as
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).
However, many people still hear older terms like:
- Asperger’s Syndrome
- PDD-NOS
- High-functioning autism
- Classic autism
Understanding how these terms evolved, and what they mean now, can help families feel more confident navigating evaluations, school services, and therapy options.
In this guide, we’ll explain the historical “types” of autism, how diagnosis works today, and what this means for children and adults in Fredericksburg and across Virginia.
What Is Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)?
Autism Spectrum Disorder is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects:
- Social communication
- Social interaction
- Behavior and interests
According to the
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), autism affects approximately
1 in 36 children in the United States.
The word
spectrum is key, it reflects the wide range of strengths and support needs among individuals with autism.
In our sessions with families across Virginia, we’ve seen firsthand how two children with the same diagnosis can present very differently. That’s why understanding “types” requires understanding the spectrum.
The Historical Types of Autism
Before 2013, autism was divided into separate diagnoses under the DSM-IV (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders). In 2013, the DSM-5 combined these into one unified diagnosis: Autism Spectrum Disorder.
Let’s review the older categories, since many parents and educators still hear these terms.
1. Autistic Disorder (Classic Autism)
This was considered the more “traditional” presentation of autism.
Children diagnosed with Autistic Disorder often showed:
- Significant language delays
- Social communication difficulties
- Repetitive behaviors
- Sensory sensitivities
Case Example from Fredericksburg
We worked with a preschool-aged child in Fredericksburg who had limited verbal communication, preferred solitary play, and engaged in repetitive movements. Under DSM-IV, he likely would have received a diagnosis of Autistic Disorder.
With early ABA therapy, speech services, and coordinated school support, he developed functional communication skills and now participates meaningfully in his classroom.
2. Asperger’s Syndrome
Asperger’s Syndrome was characterized by:
- Strong verbal skills
- Average or above-average intelligence
- Social communication challenges
- Intense, focused interests
Unlike classic autism, children with Asperger’s did not have significant language delays.
Many adults diagnosed before 2013 still identify as having Asperger’s.
Example from Our Work
We’ve supported teenagers in Virginia who excel academically but struggle with:
- Interpreting social cues
- Managing anxiety
- Flexible thinking
Under DSM-IV, these students may have been diagnosed with Asperger’s Syndrome. Today, they are diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder Level 1.
3. Pervasive Developmental Disorder – Not Otherwise Specified (PDD-NOS)
PDD-NOS was often referred to as “atypical autism.”
It was diagnosed when:
- A child showed some characteristics of autism
- But did not meet full criteria for Autistic Disorder or Asperger’s
This category captured children whose developmental patterns did not neatly fit into other labels.
After 2013, PDD-NOS was absorbed into ASD.
