Autism social-emotional: which statement best captures a common characteristic?

• A. Consistent eye contact with strangers
• B. Avoids eye contact
• C. No repetitive behaviors
• D. Avoids eye contact and may engage in repetitive behaviors

Answer: (B)

In autism, how a person engages socially, especially through eye contact, is a key area of difference. Many individuals show reduced or atypical eye contact during interactions, meaning they may avoid looking at a person’s face or gaze away rather than maintain steady eye contact. This pattern is a common descriptor of social communication differences and helps explain how they connect with others in social situations.

Stating that someone consistently makes eye contact with strangers doesn’t align with what is often seen in autism, where gaze may be limited or redirected. Saying there are no repetitive behaviors isn’t accurate, since repetitive behaviors are a well-documented feature in many individuals on the spectrum. And while some people with autism may engage in repetitive behaviors, combining eye-contact avoidance with repetitive actions makes the description less specific to the social-emotional aspect, which is the focus here.