Autism is a complex developmental disorder that affects an individual’s social, communication, and behavior skills. Autism is a spectrum disorder, meaning that it affects individuals differently, and the severity of the disorder can range greatly. Although each individual with autism is unique, there are two major characteristics that are commonly associated with autism.
The first major characteristic of autism is impaired social interaction. Individuals with autism may have difficulty interpreting social cues and responding appropriately to social situations. They may find it hard to interact with others and have difficulty initiating or maintaining conversations. They may also have difficulty reading facial expressions or recognizing emotions in others.
The second major characteristic of autism is difficulty with communication. Many individuals with autism have difficulty with verbal and non-verbal communication. They may have difficulty expressing their wants and needs, or they may have problems understanding what others are saying. They may also have difficulty with basic language skills, such as asking questions or carrying on conversations. Additionally, they may have difficulty with abstract language, such as metaphors and idioms.
Overall, the two major characteristics of autism are impaired social interaction and difficulty with communication. These challenges can vary greatly from person to person, and can range from mild to severe. It is important to remember that each individual with autism is unique and that autism is a spectrum disorder.