The common types of autism spectrum disorder are as follows:
1. Asperger’s Syndrome
One of the mildest traits of autism, a person with this trait might be very intelligent and highly functioning. However, they find it difficult to communicate in social surroundings. If you know someone with this trait, notice how they are focused on their favourite topics and continue discussing them.
Other symptoms include trouble reading body language and facial expressions, inability to understand humour or irony, lacking eye contact and repetition of certain behaviours and activities.
2. Pervasive Developmental Disorder, Not Otherwise Specified (PDD-NOS)
This trait's symptoms are more severe than those in Asperger's syndrome. This trait is most prevalent in children. You will notice symptoms such as poor communication and slurred speech, issues in special behaviour, reduced skill development, problems accepting criticism or changes, weird responses to sight, sound, taste, smell, touch, etc. This trait is also known as atypical autism.
3. Autistic Disorder
This trait comes with almost similar symptoms but at a much more intense level. You will notice trouble communicating with people, challenging interacting socially with others, and noticing repetitive behaviours.
Some additional symptoms also include disturbances in sleeping or eating. In addition, children who are diagnosed with such traits find it difficult to play with others or interact with their friends.
4. Childhood Disintegrative Disorder
One of the rarest and most severe traits children with this type tend to develop normally for the first few years but start to lose mental, social and communication skills fast. They also lose self-care and social skills, motor skills and bladder control. Since they cannot express themselves, others might find it difficult to understand them.