Those who are unfamiliar with the behavior characteristics of autism are often puzzled when they come across a child who has autism. The key to understanding, however, is education, and this is certainly an essential part of opening a child's world. Once caregivers, educators, family, friends, and even strangers understand a bit more about what autism is and how autistic behavior is displayed, a greater awareness of the condition can be known. The following is a list of characteristics associated with autism. Keep in mind that not all of these behaviors may be exhibited by one individual.
· Avoids eye contact with others
· Looks for repetition, which can be found in phrases, rhythms, visual objects, numbers, etc.
· Has difficulty socializing and communicating with others
· Mimics others speech, words, etc.
· Avoids physical contact
· Responds inappropriately, either with words or noises, such as laughing
· Does not adapt well to change, likes schedules and routines
· Doesn't show fear
· Prefers solitude
· Likes repetitive motions
· Has difficulty sleeping
· Shows aggressive behavior toward self and others
· Lacks the ability to concentrate or doesn't show interest in learning new skills
· Exhibits an obsession with certain objects
· Doesn't understand figurative references, may only perceive words and ideas in a literal sense
· Is unable to share
· Finds it difficult to communicate with peers
· Has problem understanding sentence syntax
· Has difficulty controlling emotions, may have emotional outbursts
The above information thankfully comes from the autism.lovetoknow.com at the following link.