How to Spot Autism Symptoms in Teenagers
Instructions
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Talk to the teenager to assess his ability to communicate verbally and nonverbally. Note whether he has trouble starting or continuing a conversation, whether he is able to understand your point of view or whether he is able to speak at all. He may communicate with gestures rather than spoken language.
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Observe the teenager's body posture and his ability to make or maintain eye contact during conversation. Autistic individuals often have trouble with these social skills.
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Notice whether the teenager is interested in participating in group or family activities. An autistic person typically displays little interest in such activities and has trouble making friends.
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Look for a preoccupation with a particular topic or an object. Autistic teens and adults often display an apparent expertise or a captivation by a very narrow subject area.
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Be aware of a heightened sensitivity to sensory stimuli. Many teens with autism don't like physical contact or are startled easily by sudden loud noises. They may seem to tune out the world.
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Determine if the teen has learning difficulties by finding out if he has any trouble in school.
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