Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex neurological and developmental disorder that affects a person's ability to communicate and interact with others. It is characterized by difficulties in social communication, restricted and repetitive behaviors, and sensory processing issues. While the exact cause of ASD is unknown, both genetics and environmental factors are thought to play a role. People with ASD may experience a wide range of symptoms, and the severity of these symptoms can vary greatly.
Common signs of ASD include difficulty making eye contact, difficulty understanding social cues such as tone of voice or body language, lack of empathy, and social isolation. Other possible symptoms include learning to talk relatively late, not playing interactively with other children, repetitive movements, or self-abusive behavior such as banging your head. It is important to note that people with ASD can vary widely in their level of functioning, and not everyone with ASD will experience all of the symptoms listed. In addition, some adults and children without autism may show some of the same behaviors and symptoms.
Although autism cannot be cured, therapies and support services can help a person with ASD improve their symptoms and quality of life. It is discussed whether girls and women with autism may show different symptoms than boys and men, and that current diagnostic criteria may be biased towards boys and stereotypical male behavior. Take the autism spectrum disorder quiz related to the causes, reasons, symptoms, treatment, diagnosis and therapies for this. Milder symptoms in children with autism spectrum disorder who work best may not be recognized until they are in school.