Autism, formally called autism spectrum disorder (ASD) or autism spectrum condition (ASC), is a neurodevelopmental disorder marked by deficits in reciprocal social communication and the presence of restricted and repetitive patterns of behavior. Other common signs include difficulties with social interaction, verbal and nonverbal communication, along with perseverative interests, stereotypic body movements, rigid routines, and hyper- or hyporeactivity to sensory input. Autism is clinically regarded as a spectrum disorder, meaning that it can manifest very differently in each person. For example, some are nonspeaking, while others have proficient spoken language. Because of this, there is wide variation in the support needs of people across the autism spectrum.
Pathological demand avoidance can occur. People with this set of autistic symptoms are more likely to refuse to do what is asked or expected of them, even to activities they enjoy
Unusual or atypical eating behavior occurs in about three-quarters of children with ASD, to the extent that it was formerly a diagnostic indicator.[105] Selectivity is the most common problem, although eating rituals and food refusal also occur.
Sensory abnormalities are found in over 90% of autistic people, and are considered core features by some
A 2021 anonymized online survey of 16- to 90
Rates of comorbid depression in people with an ASD range from 4–58%
Sensory processing disorder is also comorbid with ASD, with comorbidity rates of 42–88%
Gastrointestinal problems are one of the most commonly co-occurring medical conditions in autistic people.[240] These are linked to greater social impairment, irritability, language impairments, mood changes, and behavior and sleep problems.
