10 Autism Symptoms

By christine

Reviewed: dr. vanta

Article Sources

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/

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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/