Autism is not a processing error. It’s a different operating system. –Sarah Hendrickx
This quote precedes the research studies that we have been reflecting on in this blog, and yet, it speaks directly to the findings revealed in the results of the research studies reported in the December 26, 2025 Washington Post article.
These studies described research revealing genetic variations found in some children at birth, which are triggered to activate at different ages and under diverse environmental conditions. In Sarah’s words “different operating systems”.
This discovery of discrete biological subtypes of autism enhances the diagnostic process, assists with placement on the spectrum and improves the ability to determine the type of intervention and/or treatment required. In essence, the spectrum becomes more of a discrete continuum of variations, rather than a vague categorisation.
In this recent expansion of the diagnostic criteria for determining autism several hither-to unknown factors have come to light. Although we have always known that the spectrum covers a broad range of symptoms, now, according to new studies a variety of factors would seem to indicate at least four distinct forms of autism:
- 10% of those tested were Broadly Affected, facing the most severe challenges, affecting nearly every aspect of their lives.
- 19% displayed Mixed Autism exhibiting developmental delay. This group ironically showed few signs of anxiety, depression or disruptive behaviour. “Mixed” indicates a wide variance in the display of social or repetitive behaviours.
- 30% were Moderately Challenged, exhibiting mostly problems with subtler social and communication ‘differences’ and repetitive habits.
- 37% were classified as Social/Behavioural: Early development was on target, but these participants struggled with issues like ADHD, anxiety, depression or obsessive-compulsive disorder. 37% of test group.
One of the key findings of the study was the late diagnosis of the fourth group—the social-behavioural. The data from a number of globally diverse studies indicates that those diagnosed after their sixth birthday carry distinct genetic profiles. These genetic profiles may be embedded codes which affect various factors including the processing of knowledge and events, and behavioral responses.
This prompts the conclusion that ‘autism’ is indeed an indication of a unique ‘operating system’, arising from underlying discrete genetic variations.
This quote from: Kingston, Susanna . Embracing Late Adult Autism: A Self-Help Guide for Adults Discovering Their Neurodivergent Mind and Learning to Thrive on the Spectrum (p. 1). Kindle Edition.
Sarah Hendrickx is the author of several books on autism (see our Authors and their Books page) and a well-known speaker. Her writing is multi-faceted; as well as writing on Autism, she also writes about gardening and travel.
Margaret Jean 