Which of the following is a core feature of Autism Spectrum Disorder?

• A. Social and communication problems
• B. Mobility impairment only
• C. Food allergies
• D. Enhanced sensory processing

Answer: (A)

The defining feature being tested here is social communication difficulties. Autism Spectrum Disorder is characterized by persistent challenges in social interaction and communication across contexts, such as trouble engaging in back-and-forth conversation, using and understanding nonverbal cues (like eye contact and facial expressions), and forming relationships appropriate to the developmental level. These social-communication difficulties tend to appear in early childhood and are central to the diagnosis, which is why this option best fits.

Mobility impairment refers to movement or physical abilities, which isn’t part of what autism is defined by. Food allergies are unrelated to the diagnostic criteria for autism. Sensory processing differences are common in autism, but “enhanced sensory processing” isn’t a standard way to describe the typical sensory profile; many individuals experience heightened or atypical responses to sensory input rather than enhanced processing overall.