What is the key characteristic of autism spectrum disorders?

The key characteristic of autism spectrum disorders (ASD) is impaired social interaction and communication. Individuals with ASD often face challenges in understanding and engaging in social cues, maintaining conversations, and developing relationships. This core feature significantly affects their ability to connect with others and express themselves effectively within social contexts.

While high academic performance and a preference for routine and structure can be associated with some individuals within the autism spectrum, they do not define ASD itself. Many individuals with autism can struggle academically, and the spectrum is vast, encompassing a wide range of abilities and challenges. Fear of loud noises may be a sensory sensitivity experienced by some individuals with ASD, but it is not a defining characteristic of the disorder. The focus on impaired social interaction and communication lays the foundational understanding of autism spectrum disorders, making it the most accurate descriptor of the condition.