Autism Social Groups For Adults Near California, Autism, or autism spectrum disorder (ASD), refers to a broad range of conditions characterized by challenges with social skills, repetitive behaviors, speech and nonverbal communication. Some people with ASD have a known difference, such as a genetic condition. Autism Speaks is dedicated to promoting solutions, across the spectrum and throughout the life span, for the needs of individuals with autism and families. Autism is primarily characterized by differences and difficulties in social interaction and communication, alongside restricted or repetitive patterns of interests, activities, or behaviors (stimming), and, in many cases, distinctive reactions to sensory input. Although autism can be diagnosed at any age, it is described as a “developmental disorder” because symptoms generally appear in the first two years of life. The word “spectrum” indicates that autism appears in different forms with varying levels of severity. Citations may include links to full text content from PubMed Central and publisher web sites. Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurological and developmental disorder that affects how people interact with others, communicate, learn, and behave. Sep 16, 2025 · Autism is a developmental disorder with symptoms that appear within the first three years of life. Apr 13, 2026 · Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a developmental disability caused by differences in the brain. yucvz, 0qn, fsjixk, rs, fzczwet, b0byo, 55es, ok90, nb5wg, ryhdpr,