Some children and adults with autism spectrum disorder can display narrow and repetitive interests and patterns of behavior:

• They develop attachment to certain routines or “rituals” and become upset at the slightest change or when interrupted in their routine.
• They may display repetitive movements, such as rocking themselves or hand flapping.
• They may develop odd movements or coordination issues, like clumsiness when walking or stiff and exaggerated body language.
• They may bite, slap, or hit themselves or bang their heads against the wall.
• They may have a fascination or fixation with certain objects or their parts, or things that spin.
• They may have a heightened sensitivity to sounds, touch, taste, or smells.
• They can be finicky eaters because they have low tolerance for certain textures, smells or food appearance. They tend to want sameness with food that they like.
• They don’t seem to be able to engage in make-believe play.

Some children with autism spectrum disorder become more engaged with others as they mature and show fewer disturbances. Those with less severe problems may eventually have normal or close to normal lives. However, others may continue to have difficulties with language or social skills, and adolescence can trigger problematic behaviors and emotional problems that parents and family members have to navigate with care.