Common Signs and Symptoms of Autism

The signs of autism can vary widely from person to person and may change with age. They typically appear in early childhood. If you notice several of these signs in a child, it is a good idea to speak with a pediatrician or a child development specialist.

1.  Challenges in Social Communication and Interaction

  • Delayed Speech or complete lack of
  • Does not respond to name; may appear
  • Avoids eye
  • Doesn’t point or share
  • Echolalia: repeating words/phrases.
  • Difficulty with social play, turn-
  • Literal understanding of jokes/sarcasm.
  • Lack of pretend
  • Leads by hand without words/eye
  • Difficulty with

2.  Repetitive Behaviors and Restricted Interests

  • Need for sameness; upset by
  • Repetitive movements (hand-flapping, rocking, toe-walking).
  • Obsessive interest in specific topics/objects.
  • Unusual play with toys (lining up, spinning wheels).
  • Strong attachment to unusual

 

3.  Sensory Sensitivities

Over 90% of autistic individuals experience sensory abnormalities. This can manifest as being over-sensitive (hyper-responsive) or under-sensitive (hypo-responsive).

  • Over-Responsivity: distress from everyday sounds, dislikes touch, food/clothing
  • Under-Responsivity: insensitive to pain/temperature, unaware of
  • Sensation Seeking: craves input, spins, crashes into things, licks or smells

 

Other Common Signs

  • Inappropriate laughing/giggling.
  • No understanding of real-world
  • Extreme hyperactivity or
  • Unusual or picky eating