The "Red Flags" of Autism
Individuals with autism usually exhibit some of the traits listed below. These symptoms can range from mild to severe and vary in intensity from symptom to symptom. Please note this symptom list in NOT a substitute for a full-scale diagnostic assessment.
- Difficulty interacting or playing with other children
- Insistence on sameness; resists changes in routine
- Laughing or giggling during inappropriate situations
- No real fear of dangers
- Little or no eye contact
- Sustained odd play or repetitive play
- Apparent insensitivity to pain
- Echolalia (repeating words or phrases in place of normal language)
- Prefers to be alone; aloof manner
- May not want cuddling or physical touch
- Spins objects
- Not responsive to instructions or gestures; appears to ignore
- Inappropriate attachment to objects
- Difficulty in expressing needs; uses gestures or pointing instead of words
- Noticeable physical overactivity or extreme underactivity
- Tantrums – displays extreme distress for no apparent reason
- Unresponsive to normal teaching methods