Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition characterized by differences in social interaction, communication, and behavior. Commonly observed symptoms in ASD include:

Social and Communication Challenges:
* Limited or no eye contact.
* Lack of response to their name or appearing unresponsive when directly addressed.
* Limited or absent use of gestures and facial expressions.
* Difficulties initiating or sustaining social interactions.
* Avoiding or disliking physical closeness, such as hugging.
* Delays in the development of speech and language skills.
* Echolalia (repeating heard words or phrases) may be observed.
* Using methods like pulling an adult's arm to communicate needs, instead of direct verbal expression.
* Confusing pronouns (e.g., I/you).

Repetitive Behaviors and Restricted Interests:
* Excessive adherence to specific routines or patterns; resistance to changes in these routines.
* Repetitive motor movements (stereotypies) such as hand flapping, toe-walking, or body rocking.
* Intense interest in specific parts of objects (e.g., spinning wheels) or in arranging objects.
* Playing with toys in non-functional, repetitive ways (e.g., turning a car upside down to spin its wheels).
* Limited food preferences or rigidity in eating habits.

Sensory Sensitivities:
* Hypersensitivity or, conversely, hyposensitivity to sensory input such as sound, light, smell, taste, or touch.
* Giving unexpected reactions due to these sensitivities.

Other Common Features:
* Epilepsy may be observed in some individuals with autism.
* They may show differences in distinguishing between animate and inanimate objects, often showing more interest in objects than people.
* Difficulty showing interest in age-appropriate symbolic or social play.