What is a characteristic of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)?

A characteristic of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is communication difficulties. Individuals with ASD often experience challenges in verbal and non-verbal communication. This can manifest as difficulties in initiating or maintaining conversations, understanding social cues, and expressing their thoughts or feelings appropriately. Such communication challenges can vary widely among individuals, with some being non-verbal while others may have advanced language skills but still struggle with back-and-forth conversation or understanding figurative language.

The other options, while they may pertain to various developmental disorders or conditions, do not specifically define a characteristic of ASD. For instance, physical growth delays are not typical of all individuals with ASD and do not define the disorder itself. Similarly, cognitive capability enhancement does not align with the general understanding of ASD, as cognitive abilities among individuals with ASD can vary greatly and often include both strengths and challenges. Lastly, high social engagement is not typically associated with ASD, as many individuals on the spectrum may struggle with social interactions and may prefer solitary activities over engaging with peers. Thus, communication difficulties stand out as a defining feature of autism spectrum disorder.