07/01/2026
๐ 5 BEHAVIORAL SIGNS OF AUTISM ๐
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) affects how a person communicates, behaves, and experiences the world. Signs can look different depending on age, but here are five common behavioural patterns to watch for:
1๏ธโฃ SOCIAL & COMMUNICATION DIFFERENCES
Limited eye contact or response to name
Difficulty with conversation, body language, or understanding emotions
Preference for routines and being alone
2๏ธโฃ REPETITIVE & RESTRICTED BEHAVIOURS
Hand flapping, rocking, or repeating words
Strong focus on one topic or interest
Rigid routines and distress with changes
3๏ธโฃ SENSORY PROCESSING DIFFERENCES
Hypersensitivity to lights, sounds, textures, or smells
Hyposensitivity (seeking stronger sensory input)
Mixed responses depending on the environment
4๏ธโฃ GENERAL SYMPTOMS
Sleep difficulties (common in 50โ80% of autistic people)
Gastrointestinal issues (constipation, stomach pain, food sensitivities)
Motor skill delays or coordination challenges
5๏ธโฃ COEXISTING CONDITIONS
ADHD, anxiety, OCD, epilepsy, or sensory impairments may occur alongside autism
๐ก Autism looks different for everyone. Recognizing these signs early can help families provide the right support and improve outcomes.
Source:
https://www.myautismteam.com/resources/behaviors-and-other-symptoms-of-autism?mht_token=BAhJIhpjaWxsaWVycy5tbUBnbWFpbC5jb20GOgZFVA%3D%3D--30ac23ee9a118f09eed539cd810fd5782cb3e9eb01b885092cb1e1afdf94f268&utm_campaign=sendgrid_resource&utm_medium=email&utm_source=sendgrid
Medically reviewed by Meredith Plant, M.D.
Written by Kelly Crumrin and Amanda Jacot, Pharm.D
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