Step 1: Clinical Features of Autism Spectrum Disorder.
Autism spectrum disorder (AS is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by a range of symptoms. The clinical features typically include:
(1) Impaired Social Interaction: Difficulty in understanding social cues, maintaining eye contact, and forming relationships. Children with ASD often prefer solitary activities and have difficulty engaging in peer interactions.
(2) Communication Challenges: Delayed speech and language development, or a complete lack of speech. Some individuals may use repetitive or abnormal speech patterns.
(3) Repetitive Behaviors: Engaging in repetitive movements (e.g., hand-flapping, rocking) or rituals. A strong need for sameness and routine is common.
(4) Sensory Sensitivities: Overreacting or underreacting to sensory stimuli, such as lights, sounds, textures, or smells.
(5) Restricted Interests: Intense focus on specific topics or activities, often to the exclusion of everything else.