Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a developmental disability caused by differences in the brain. People with ASD often have problems with social communication and interaction, and restricted or repetitive behaviors or interests.
Social Communication and Interaction Skills
* Does not respond to name by 9 months of age
* Does not show facial expressions like happy, sad, angry, and surprised by 9 months of age
* Does not play simple interactive games like pat-a-cake by 12 months of age
* Uses few or no gestures by 12 months of age (for example, does not wave goodbye)
* Does not point to show you something interesting by 18 months of age.
Restricted or Repetitive Behaviors or Interests
* Lines up toys or other objects and gets upset when order is changed.
* Repeats words or phrases over and over (called echolalia).
* Plays with toys the same way every time
* Is focused on parts of objects (for example, wheels)
* Gets upset by minor changes
* Has obsessive interests
* Must follow certain routines
* Flaps hands, rocks body, or spins self in circles
* Has unusual reactions to the way things sound, smell, taste, look, or feel.
Other Characteristics
* Most people with ASD have other related characteristics. These might include
* Delayed language skills
* Delayed movement skills
* Delayed cognitive or learning skills
* Hyperactive, impulsive, and/or inattentive behavior
* Epilepsy or seizure disorder
* Unusual eating and sleeping habits
* Gastrointestinal issues (for example, constipation)
* Unusual mood or emotional reactions
* Anxiety, stress, or excessive worry
* Lack of fear or more fear than expected
It is important to note that children with ASD may not have all or any of the behaviors listed as examples here.
