Final answer:
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is characterized by impairments in social interaction, communication abilities, and repetitive behaviors or interests. The severity and presentation can vary widely across individuals, with some experiencing intellectual disabilities and others leading functional lives.
Step-by-step explanation:
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is defined by qualitative impairments in three primary areas of development:
- Social interaction
- Communication abilities
- Repetitive behaviors or interests
Children with ASD may struggle with making eye contact, reading social cues, or feeling empathy. They might also engage in repetitive motor behaviors and have a rigid adherence to routines. The range of cognitive abilities in individuals with ASD can vary significantly, with some exhibiting intellectual disabilities while others may have average or above-average intelligence. Despite these challenges, many people with ASD lead functional lives and do not see their condition as a disorder, but rather as a different way of processing information.