Why Did DSM-5 Eliminate Classic Autism Subtypes?

PostedNovember 15, 2025

UpdatedNovember 15, 2025

ByMy Patient Advice

Author: Lucia Alvarez, MSc | Reviewed by: Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

The DSM-5 autism subtypes removal marked one of the most significant moments in modern autism reclassification. Before 2013, the DSM-IV recognised separate categories such as Autistic Disorder, Asperger’s Disorder, and Pervasive Developmental Disorder – Not Otherwise Specified (PDD-NOS). However, the DSM-5 merged these into a single Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) classification. This autism subtypes removal aimed to reflect research showing that these distinctions were inconsistent and often led to confusion or misdiagnosis. By shifting to a unified spectrum diagnosis, the DSM-5 sought to better capture the range and variability of autistic traits.

Reasons Behind the Change

The decision to merge categories under the DSM-5 autism subtypes update was based on several factors:

Overlap of symptoms

Many individuals met criteria for more than one subtype, suggesting the divisions were less meaningful than initially thought.

Diagnostic inconsistency

Clinicians often disagreed on which subtype applied, leading to unreliable results across regions and practitioners.

Better representation of diversity

A single spectrum diagnosis allows for recognition of different severity levels and support needs without forcing people into narrow labels.

Impact on Diagnosis and Services

While the change improved clarity for many, it also raised concerns that some individuals, particularly those with milder traits, might no longer meet the unified criteria. Despite this, the new model supports a more flexible and personalised approach to assessment and has become a central aspect of ongoing autism reclassification debates.

For tailored advice on how these diagnostic changes might affect you or your child, visit providers like Autism Detect for consultation.

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to Autism Diagnostic Criteria (DSM-5, ICD-11).

Lucia Alvarez, MSc

Author

Lucia Alvarez is a clinical psychologist with a Master’s in Clinical Psychology and extensive experience providing evidence-based therapy and psychological assessment to children, adolescents, and adults. Skilled in CBT, DBT, and other therapeutic interventions, she has worked in hospital, community, and residential care settings. Her expertise includes grief counseling, anxiety management, and resilience-building, with a strong focus on creating safe, supportive environments to improve mental well-being.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the author's privacy.

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Reviewer

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez is a UK-trained physician with an MBBS and experience in general surgery, cardiology, internal medicine, gynecology, intensive care, and emergency medicine. She has managed critically ill patients, stabilised acute trauma cases, and provided comprehensive inpatient and outpatient care. In psychiatry, Dr. Fernandez has worked with psychotic, mood, anxiety, and substance use disorders, applying evidence-based approaches such as CBT, ACT, and mindfulness-based therapies. Her skills span patient assessment, treatment planning, and the integration of digital health solutions to support mental well-being.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the reviewer's privacy.