10 Autism Symptoms
Article Sources
- 1. 'Autism Spectrum Disorder.' MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 4 May 2021, medlineplus.gov/autismspectrumdisorder.html
- 2. 'Autism Spectrum Disorder.' National Institute of Mental Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/autism-spectrum-disorders-asd/
Some people get confused by autism symptoms because they can vary widely. The reason there are so many signs of autism is that it's a spectrum. Also known as the autism spectrum disorder, or ASD, it's a neurological and developmental disorder that starts early in a child's life and continues throughout adulthood.
Autism, Asperger syndrome, pervasive developmental disorder and childhood disintegrative disorder are all part of autism spectrum disorder. Some people with ASD have severe symptoms that affect every aspect of their lives. Others may have less severe symptoms. However, no matter where they are on the spectrum, it still affects their day-to-day living.1‘Autism Spectrum Disorder.’ MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 4 May 2021, medlineplus.gov/autismspectrumdisorder.html
Eye Contact
Eye contact is an important part of communication. For many people, it's a sign of respect to look another person in the eye when speaking to them. But for individuals on the autism spectrum, eye contact is often not possible.
Additionally, looking them directly in the eyes while talking can make them anxious and respond inappropriately. If prompted to make eye contact, the person with ASD might stare blankly. While some on the spectrum may learn the skill, others might never feel comfortable with direct eye contact. For the best results, avoid forcing this communication etiquette on people with ASD.2‘Autism Spectrum Disorder.’ National Institute of Mental Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/autism-spectrum-disorders-asd/
Difficulty Reading Body Language
Some people with autism symptoms find it challenging to read body language. When this occurs, parents and caregivers can teach the person these social cues to improve their communication skills.
Interacting socially without these abilities can be difficult. It's even more problematic when they're already experiencing trouble with normal social communication. Similar to how children learn other behaviors, parents and caregivers can teach with examples and modeling to improve this skill
Problems Handling Social Interactions
Difficulty with eye contact and reading body language go hand-in-hand with social interaction issues. This group of autism symptoms includes failing to listen or respond to others while communicating and showing little interest or ignoring interactions involving group activities.
Another social issue involves an endless discussion of a single subject and failing to notice the other person in the conversation isn't interested. Additionally, people with ASD have trouble understanding other people's points of view or their actions.
Repetitive Movements
A common autism symptom involves repetitive movements. For example, a toddler might line up toys in long lines or play with the same objects all the time, showing little interest in other toys.
As a child with ASD grows, the repetitive behaviors often continue, including repeating the same words or phrases. Also known as echolalia, it can be very frustrating for the people around them. However, unless it's pointed out, the person rarely notices the repetitiveness.
Obsessive Interests
Obsessive interests are another common autism symptom. Similar to repetitive movements, the person rarely notices the obsessiveness unless someone mentions it. Parents may observe that their child is focusing entirely on a single item during early childhood, such as the wheels on toy cars.
Although this can sometimes be problematic, it can also be an area at school or later at their workplace where they excel. Avoid trying to direct the person away from their interests unless it's dangerous or inappropriate.
Sensory Issues
Many individuals on the autism spectrum experience sensory issues. These involve certain textures, noises and smells. Sensory challenges can cause hypersensitivities and hyposensitivities.
For example, some people with ASD are overwhelmed by loud noises. While most people are distracted and react unfavorably to unexpected sounds, including loud ones, those on the spectrum can't handle it and need to get away from the stimuli to function. It's common for individuals with autism to wear noise-canceling headphones in certain situations.
Upset by Small Changes
Another autism symptom occurs when a routine is disrupted. Children and adults with ASD need to stick to a strict schedule. Even the slightest change in their day can lead to a meltdown.
However, situations arise all the time that require modifying daily routines. To help the person transition through the changes, tell them early about any modifications to their day and remind them a few times beforehand. This response helps them prepare for the change.
Delayed Language Skills
A common autism spectrum disorder sign is delayed language skills. Autism develops early, with parents and caregivers seeing symptoms around age one or younger, and the challenges with social interactions might limit language development.
Additionally, some kids on the spectrum don't speak. However, through early intervention, these children may start to speak or improve with communication. In fact, children with ASD can learn to communicate as well as anyone without the disorder.
Hyperactivity
Many people with ASD also have an attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) diagnosis. Doctors often consider these co-occurring conditions. ADHD is typically diagnosed around age seven, while children with autism show symptoms of developmental delays before age two.
It's essential to remember that ASD is a spectrum with many symptoms. People with the disorder often have many autism symptoms and related conditions that make it difficult to get the proper diagnosis, so it's necessary for a professional to review everything before making a final determination.
Unusual Emotional Reactions
Perhaps the better term is intense emotional reactions. People on the spectrum can be extremely sensitive and have difficulty responding appropriately to different situations. It's especially trying when it involves social interactions.
Also, some individuals with ASD can develop emotional difficulties involving other autism symptoms, such as poor reactions to change and a focus that seems to be solely on themselves. However, early intervention can help people on the spectrum learn to respond appropriately most of the time.
