A child is suspected of having an autistic disorder. All areTRUE about autism, EXCEPT:: (A) Age between 18-24 months, (B) Child is able to interact, (C) Repetitive behavior is seen, (D) Language is not well developed
Answer is B. Clinical criteria for the diagnosis of autism are based on the DSM-IV TR and ICD10 specifications. A diagnosis of autism is based on symptoms in three areas: difficulties in reciprocal social interaction, difficulties in communication, and the presence of restricted and repetitive behaviors or interests. Children with autism often appear relatively normal in their development until the age of 18-24 months, when parents may notice delays in language, play or social interaction. Language develops slowly or not at all. Social interaction is very poor. There is no eye contact or smile. Ref: Social And Communication Development in Autism Spectrum Disorders: Early ... By PhD Tony Charman, PhD Wendy Stone, 2006, Page 39; Kaplan & Sadock's Synopsis of Psychiatry 10th Edition, Page 1194; Vestibular Re Integration of the Autistic Child: Developmental Model for Autism By Valerie M. Dejean, 2008, Page 2.