In the 20+ years since my son’s autism diagnosis, one thing has always been clear: autism is not the same for everyone. And yet, the services available to our community are often built around a one-size-fits-all model—an approach that rarely fits the nuanced needs of individuals across the spectrum.
But research is starting to reflect what families have known all along.
A new study published in Nature Genetics by researchers at the Flatiron Institute’s Center for Computational Biology (CCB) and their collaborators analyzed data from over 5,000 children and adolescents with autism, ages 4 to 18. The results were both validating and promising.
Four Subtypes Identified
Researchers identified four distinct autism subtypes, each with unique behavioral and genetic profiles:
1. Social and Behavioral Challenges (37%)
Includes ADHD, anxiety, mood dysregulation, and communication difficulties.
No major developmental delays.
Genetic activity primarily postnatal.
2. Mixed ASD with Developmental Delay (19%)
Significant developmental delays.
Fewer co-occurring behavioral disorders.
Genetic activity primarily prenatal.
3. Moderate Challenges (34%)
Milder social, behavioral, and communication difficulties.
No significant delays.
4. Broadly Affected (10%)
Combination of social, behavioral, and developmental challenges.
This study lays the groundwork for truly personalized autism care. It offers a path toward earlier, more targeted interventions and reinforces the importance of large-scale research initiatives like SPARK, which integrate both genetic and behavioral data to drive deeper insights.
In short: this research offers real hope. By moving beyond blanket labels and embracing the idea that there are multiple, distinct autism profiles, we’re getting closer to supporting people in the individualized ways they deserve.
With continued advocacy—from self-advocates, families, and those in the profound autism community—we can work toward a more equitable, comprehensive understanding of autism. One that leads to earlier identification, more appropriate interventions, and meaningful, person-centered care.
👉 Read the full study summary here
