Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that typically affects children, but it can also go undiagnosed until adulthood. Adults with autism face unique challenges in daily life, including difficulty with social interaction, communication, and sensory stimulation, as well as resistance to changes in routine.
Understanding the signs of autism in adults can be helpful for individuals who may suspect they have autism, as well as for friends, family members, and healthcare professionals who work with and support adults with autism. In this article, we will explore seven common signs of autism in adults, grouped into five aspects.
7 Common Signs of Autism in Adults
Social Interaction
Social interaction is an area where adults with autism may struggle. They may find it challenging to make eye contact during conversations, which can make it difficult for them to understand social cues and convey social engagement. Individuals with autism may have trouble initiating or sustaining conversation and may prefer to talk about specific topics of interest or engage in repetitive verbal behaviors. They may also struggle to understand nonverbal cues such as facial expressions, body language, and tone of voice, which can impact their ability to read and respond appropriately to social situations.
Communication
Communication is another area where adults with autism may face challenges. Some individuals with autism may have a delay in language development, and others may develop language skills but use language in unusual ways. People with autism may have trouble understanding figurative language or interpreting sarcasm, irony, and metaphors. They may also have difficulty using nonverbal communication themselves, such as making appropriate eye contact or using gestures to emphasize their points.
Repetitive Behaviors and Routines
Repetitive behaviors and routines are another common sign of autism in adults. Some individuals with autism may engage in repetitive movements, such as rocking back and forth, hand flapping, or spinning in circles. They may also have obsessive interests in specific topics or activities, spending hours researching or talking about their interests and becoming upset if they are unable to engage in their preferred activities.
Sensory Stimulation
Sensory stimulation is an important aspect of daily life that can be overwhelming or underwhelming for adults with ASD. Some adults with ASD may be hypersensitive to sensory stimuli, such as loud noises, bright lights, strong smells, or certain textures, while others may be hyposensitive and may seek out sensory experiences to feel more grounded and focused.
Reaction to Changes
Many adults with ASD rely on routine and structure to feel safe and secure. Changes to their daily routine, such as a change in schedule or unexpected event, can be very unsettling and may cause them to become upset or agitated. They may have difficulty adapting to new environments, such as a new job or living situation, and may resist transitioning from one activity to another.
Conclusion
In conclusion, understanding the signs of autism in adults is crucial for identifying and providing support to those who may have autism. While the signs and symptoms vary from person to person, common signs include difficulty with social interaction, communication, repetitive behaviors and routines, sensory stimulation, and reaction to changes. By recognizing these signs, healthcare professionals, family members, and friends can provide appropriate support and intervention to improve the quality of life for individuals with autism.
About Olga Sirbu
My name is Olga Sirbu, I am a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) and Licensed Applied Behavioral Analyst. My goal is to support and empower families and individuals on the autism spectrum.
Autism Advance is dedicated to training parents and caregivers, providing practical tips, and teaching individuals how to educate kids with autism.
I share evidence-based practices to help you better understand and support individuals with autism. Learn practical strategies to help individuals with autism reach their full potential, as well as gain a deeper understanding and acceptance of autism.
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