Which statement about autism’s core characteristics is true?

Which statement about autism’s core characteristics is true?

• A. Repetitive activities and resistance to change in routine are common features.
• B. Exceptional early language development
• C. No difficulties in social interaction
• D. Immediate improvement with standard education without supports

Answer: (A)

Autism involves challenges in social communication and interaction, along with restricted, repetitive patterns of behavior, interests, or activities. The statement about repetitive activities and resistance to change reflects these restricted patterns and is a hallmark feature people with autism often show, such as needing routine or becoming upset by changes. That makes it the best choice. Language development can be variable—some children with autism have delays or differences, while others may develop language relatively well—so exceptional early language development is not typical. Difficulties in social interaction are common in autism, so saying there are none isn’t accurate. And while many individuals benefit from supports in education, improvement is not guaranteed with standard education alone.

Autism involves challenges in social communication and interaction, along with restricted, repetitive patterns of behavior, interests, or activities. The statement about repetitive activities and resistance to change reflects these restricted patterns and is a hallmark feature people with autism often show, such as needing routine or becoming upset by changes. That makes it the best choice. Language development can be variable—some children with autism have delays or differences, while others may develop language relatively well—so exceptional early language development is not typical. Difficulties in social interaction are common in autism, so saying there are none isn’t accurate. And while many individuals benefit from supports in education, improvement is not guaranteed with standard education alone.