Which developmental disorder is commonly associated with impaired social interaction and restricted, repetitive patterns of behavior?

• A. Autism
• B. ADHD
• C. Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder
• D. Learning Disorder

Answer: (A)

Autism spectrum disorder is characterized by deficits in social interaction and communication combined with restricted and repetitive patterns of behavior, interests, or activities. This pattern typically appears in early development and can show up as limited eye contact or difficulty engaging with others, challenges in forming or maintaining relationships, along with repetitive movements, strict routines, or highly specific interests. The combination of social-communication difficulties and insistence on sameness or repetitive behaviors is the hallmark that sets it apart from other developmental or mental health conditions. Other options focus more on attention and hyperactivity (ADHD), intrusive thoughts and rituals (OCD), or academic skill deficits (learning disorders), but they do not present the same pair of core features in early development.