Discover if you or your loved one may have autism spectrum disorder (ASD) with this easy-to-use quiz. Get the answers you need today!
When it comes to determining if someone may have autism spectrum disorder (ASD), the first step is recognising symptoms and taking the right steps. Take this quiz to learn more about the signs and symptoms of ASD, and understand your risk of having or developing autism spectrum disorder.
Are Social Skills Developmentally Delayed?
One of the key signs of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is that a person’s social skills are significantly delayed. Generally, people with ASD will struggle in areas such as sustaining conversations and making eye contact. They may also find it hard to communicate their thoughts and feelings, and find it difficult to fit into social settings. If you or someone you know has several of these issues, it’s important to reach out for medical assistance.
Is Repetitive Behaviour Present?
Many individuals with ASD display repetitive behaviour, such as rocking back and forth or flapping their hands when excited. They may also become focused on routines and activities that they complete every day. Repetitive behaviours like these can provide comfort to an individual with ASD; however, they can be disruptive in social situations and at home.
Are Verbal Communication Deficits Displayed?
Individuals with autism spectrum disorder may find it difficult to communicate verbally, which can have a significant impact on their lives. Nonverbal communication like hand gestures, facial expressions, and body language are often missing or reduced in people with ASD. They may also have trouble using words to express their thoughts and feelings or be able to adequately describe what they need or want.
Does Your Child Exhibit Unusual Responses to Sensory Stimuli?
People with autism spectrum disorder may have a heightened or lowered response to sensory stimuli, such as lights, sound, touch and smell. For example, a person with ASD may show signs of being over- or under-sensitive to particular smells, sounds, touch textures or visual stimulus. They may also be unusually sensitive to changes in activities and environment causing them to react differently than most people. Watch for signs that indicate if a child is experiencing sensory overload or difficulties processing sensory information.
Does Your Child Lack Imagination or Demonstrate Restricted Interests and Behavioural Patterns?
People with ASD may also demonstrate unusually restricted interests in activities or focus on specific topics and engage in repetitive behaviours. They may also focus on certain activities with an intense level of detail and show difficulties in their ability to imagine or role play. Look for signs such as whether your child has difficulty altering a routine or changing activities, if they engage only in rigidly structured activities, or if they struggle when asked to improvise or participate in imaginative play.
