Final answer:
Autistic children are thought to have a dysfunctional mirror neuron system, leading to challenges in showing empathy and developing language skills, as part of the range of symptoms in Autism Spectrum Disorder.
Step-by-step explanation:
Autistic children show a dysfunctional mirror neuron system (MNS) which can explain their failure to show empathy or age appropriate language skills. The mirror neuron system is believed to be a fundamental element for mimicking and understanding the actions of others, which is a precursor to language development. Studies suggest this system might be dysfunctional in individuals with autism, leading to impaired social skills and communication difficulties. These difficulties may include challenges with eye contact, social cues, and empathy, which are characteristic symptoms of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Additionally, some autism patients, such as those with Fragile X, may also show intellectual disability, while others on the spectrum might have good language skills but still process information differently.