Level 1 ASD
ASD is a spectrum condition that encompasses a wide range of symptoms and traits that include individuals who are nonspeaking and require very substantial amounts of support to function as well as seemingly “quirky” and socially awkward people as well as top CEOs that have revolutionized their industries.
While awareness has existed in greater measure of ASD level 2 and level 3, those requiring substantial to very substantial support, respectively, autism spectrum disorder level 1 has been more poorly understood and very often missed completely, but we are learning so much from those with the condition that have found their voices and are educating others while advocating for themselves.
You may think that increased awareness of this condition came out of nowhere and you wouldn’t be alone. There are many reasons, not the least of which is how the medical and psychological community have identified and understood it over the years.
ASD level 1, which prior to 2013 was diagnosed as Asperger’s syndrome, refers to individuals who generally needless support in their daily lives compared to those with ASD level 2 and level 3. However, that doesn’t mean challenges aren’t present.
Many people with level 1 autism encounter difficulties in navigating social interactions, interpreting nonverbal cues, managing sensory sensitivities, or leveraging their executive functioning skills. Just as important, they very often bring unique strengths to the table, such as incredible attention to detail, creative problem-solving skills, or innovative ways of thinking that can lead to transformative ideas.
Understanding this balance of challenges and strengths is the key to help us learn to appreciate that while the support needs might be less visible compared to other levels on the spectrum, the experiences of those with ASD level 1 are just as valid and deserve the same level of recognition as individuals with ASD level 2 and 3.
Conversation about how autism is defined and understood has grown along with the awareness of autism. One huge shift came in 2017, when the Māori community in New Zealand introduced a new word for autism in their language: Takiwātanga, meaning "in his or her own time and space." I love this! It provides a more affirming and culturally relevant way to describe autism. It focuses on the individual’s unique way of experiencing the world rather than framing it as a deficiency. Even more importantly, in my opinion, is trying to untangle it from a “need to be cured” mindset. This neurodiversity paradigm shift helps move ASD level 1from the traditional medical model of disability. The medical model views autism as a disorder characterized by deficits that require intervention to help an individual conform to societal expectations. In contrast, the neurodiversity paradigm recognizes autism as a natural variation in human neurology—one that comes with both challenges and strengths.
Historically, autism has been seen through a deficit-based lens, with diagnostic criteria focused on what autistic individuals struggle with rather than the unique ways they think, learn, and contribute. However, perspectives are evolving, and fortunately so is the understanding by many that autism is not a disease to be cured, but a different way of experiencing the world.
The social model of disability challenges the idea that disability exists solely within an individual. Instead, it suggests that societal barriers such as inflexible work environments, sensory-unfriendly spaces, and social expectations built around neurotypical communication styles are what truly disable autistic individuals. In this view, support and accommodations should be focused not only on helping the individual but also on adapting society to be more inclusive.
For example, a person who uses a wheelchair is not inherently disabled by their body; they are disabled when buildings lack ramps and elevators. Similarly, an autistic person may not struggle because of their neurology alone, but because their needs, such as clear communication, sensory-friendly environments, and structured social expectations, are not being met. This mindset is necessary for the paradigm shifts that need to take place.
The neurodiversity movement, which builds on the social model, argues that autism and other neurodivergences (such as ADHD, dyslexia, and Tourette’s) are valuable forms of human diversity. Coined by autistic sociologist Judy Singer in 1998, the term neurodiversity encourages society to view brain differences the same way we view biodiversity: vitally essential for a thriving, innovative world.
This paradigm shift has profound implications:
Moving from pathology to identity: Autism is not just a medical condition but a core part of an individual’s identity, influencing how they think, communicate, and experience life.
Focusing on strengths: Many autistic individuals have exceptional abilities in pattern recognition, problem-solving, deep focus, and creative thinking. When these strengths are recognized and nurtured, autistic individuals can thrive in every field of work!
Advocating for inclusion: Instead of expecting autistic individuals to adapt entirely to neurotypical norms, society is being challenged to meet them halfway by providing accommodations, increasing accessibility, and valuing diverse communication styles.
Encouraging self-advocacy: Autistic individuals are increasingly advocating for their own needs, pushing for policies, workplace adaptations, and educational reforms that allow them to fully participate in society.
Over the last century, our understanding of autism has evolved from misunderstanding and stigma to recognition and advocacy. The medical and psychological communities have moved from classifying autism as childhood schizophrenia to defining it as a spectrum of neurodevelopmental differences. And now, the broader public conversation is beginning to shift away from seeing autism as a problem to be solved and toward embracing autistic individuals for who they are.
While many challenges remain, particularly in improving diagnostic access for women, people of color, and adults, as well as reasonable accommodations in the workplace, the growing awareness and acceptance of neurodiversity are creating new opportunities for autistic individuals to live authentically and contribute meaningfully.
Autistic children grow into autistic adults, and they will always have different needs than the neuro-majority. But with greater understanding, support, and accommodations, we can create a world where autistic individuals don’t just simply survive. But they can thrive on their own terms, in their own time and in their own space.
Exciting!
My favorite take away: Takiwātanga, meaning "in his or her own time and space."
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