FTCE Exceptional Student Education (ESE) K-12 Practice Test

Among the following, which symptom is commonly associated with Autism Spectrum Disorder?

1. Excellent verbal communication

2. Lack of eye contact

3. Strong social skills

4. High empathy

The correct answer is: Lack of eye contact

The symptom commonly associated with Autism Spectrum Disorder is a lack of eye contact. Individuals with autism may find it challenging to engage in typical social interactions, which often include making and maintaining eye contact. This behavior can stem from discomfort in social situations or difficulties in processing social cues, which many individuals on the spectrum experience. In contrast, the other symptoms mentioned typically do not align with the characteristics associated with Autism Spectrum Disorder. For instance, strong social skills, excellent verbal communication, and high empathy are often areas where individuals with autism may face challenges. While there are exceptions, particularly given the wide variability among individuals with autism, the general trend is that these traits are less common than the difficulties with eye contact and other aspects of social communication.