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Signs of Autism

Writer's picture: Kaylee James, PsyDKaylee James, PsyD

Updated: Jul 28, 2023

The formal criteria for Autism Spectrum Disorder is broken down into two categories: Restricted and Repetitive Interests and Social and Communication Deficits. Symptoms must be present in each of these categories in order to meet criteria for the disorder, but an individual does not need to have ALL symptoms to have autism. In an attempt to accurately organize some of the signs of autism, I like to categorize symptoms based on these categories. Here are some signs to look out for!

Restricted and Repetitive Interests:

  • Special Interests - Specific items, topics, toys, etc. that the individual REALLY enjoys or even obsesses over. Some examples are My Little Pony, history, board games, space, collecting seashells, etc.

  • Sensory Differences - This can include sensitivities or lack of response to sensory experiences that would normally trigger a response. Some examples of sensitivities could include heightened responses to loud noises (blender, vacuum, fireworks, etc.), an interest in an enjoyable texture, discomfort with clothing tags, or avoidance of specific food textures. In opposition, some kids may seem to not respond to some sensory input such as alarming noises or pain.

  • Difficulty with Change in Routine - If plans, a daily routine (ie: getting ready for school), or structure of an activity changes, is this difficult? Sometimes these changes can lead to meltdowns or an inability to change the routine. This can also look like difficulty switching from one task to another.

Social and Communication Deficits:

  • Speech Delays - Early difficulty with speech production or regression in speech.

  • Difficulty Understanding Social Norms - There are lots of social "rules" that we pick up on and follow, sometimes without even noticing. Autistic individuals may have difficulty picking up and following these norms. Some examples include sarcasm, humor, understanding emotions of self or others, knowing when someone is no longer interested in the conversation, and understanding what is appropriate to say to strangers.

  • Limited Understanding and Use of Nonverbal Communication - Separate from language, we also use nonverbal cues to communicate. Some nonverbal cues may include eye contact, gestures, facial expressions, and tone of voice.

I would be missing a big piece of the puzzle if I did not also explain that just because someone has these symptoms does not mean they necessarily have autism. Formal autism testing and assessment should be completed in order to determine if criteria for this disorder or other disorders are met. Many of these symptoms overlap with other disorders, are appropriate in some contexts, and may relate to something other than autism. For example, most of us like to touch a fluffy blanket or cuddle up with a puppy. This is a sensory experience but may not be s result of autism. Similarly, we may feel uncomfortable and confused in some social situations and this is typical! If you are seeing some of these signs, however, it may be time to consult with your primary care physician or a specialist about your concerns.


Thanks for reading!

- Kaylee James, PsyD


Disclaimer: The information contained in this blog and website is intended for informational and educational purposes only. Nothing in this on the website is intended to be a substitute for professional, psychological, psychiatric, or medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Please note that no doctor-patient, supervisory, or consultative relationship is formed. If you need the qualified advice, supervision, or consultation of any mental health practitioner or medical provider, please seek one in your area.


Reference:


American Psychiatric Association. (2022). Neurodevelopmental disorders. In Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (5th ed., text rev.).

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