_ is characterised by widespread impairments in social interactions and communication skills, and stereotyped patterns of behaviours, interests and activities.
_ is characterised by widespread impairments in social interactions and communication skills, and stereotyped patterns of behaviours, interests and activities.
Options
Correct option: (B) Autism Spectrum Disorder — its NCERT definition exactly matches widespread impairments in social interaction, communication, and stereotyped/repetitive behaviours and interests.
Marking Scheme
- 11 mark: correct option (B) Autism Spectrum Disorder.
Hint
Look for the two defining features together: social/communication impairment AND repetitive/stereotyped behaviour — this combination is unique to Autism Spectrum Disorder.
Quick Oral Answer
Autism Spectrum Disorder involves impaired social interaction and communication along with restricted, repetitive, stereotyped behaviours and interests — the correct answer is (B).
Analysis & Explanation
This is a direct recall question testing the textbook definition of a neurodevelopmental disorder.
Why B is correct:
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is defined in NCERT as a disorder marked by widespread impairments in social interaction and communication skills, along with restricted, repetitive, and stereotyped patterns of behaviour, interests, or activities — this is a verbatim match to the question.
Why the distractors are wrong:
- Dyslexia (A) is a specific learning disorder affecting reading ability (accuracy and fluency), not social interaction or communication broadly.
- Specific Learning Disorder (C) refers to difficulties in reading, writing, or mathematics specifically, not social/communication impairment.
- ADHD (D) is characterised by inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity — not primarily by social-communication deficits or stereotyped behaviours.
Common Mistakes
- 1Confusing Autism Spectrum Disorder with Specific Learning Disorder or Dyslexia, which affect academic skills rather than social/communication domains.
- 2Overlooking the 'stereotyped patterns of behaviour' clue, which is the distinguishing feature separating ASD from ADHD.
Interesting Facts
Autism Spectrum Disorder replaced several separate earlier diagnostic categories (like Asperger's Syndrome) once research showed they exist on a continuum of severity, hence the term 'spectrum'.
Early signs of ASD can appear before age 3, including delayed language development and reduced eye contact, which is why early screening is emphasised in child development programmes.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How is Autism Spectrum Disorder different from ADHD?
ASD primarily involves impairments in social interaction, communication, and stereotyped/repetitive behaviours, while ADHD primarily involves inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity without necessarily impaired social communication.
Is Autism Spectrum Disorder curable?
There is no cure, but early behavioural interventions, special education, speech therapy, and structured routines can significantly improve functioning and quality of life.