Overview
Challenges in understanding and using appropriate social behaviours and communication needed to interact effectively with others across social contexts.
Diagnostic criteria overview
- Criterion A: Persistent difficulties in social interaction and communication Criterion B: Difficulty interpreting social cues, social rules, or the perspectives of others Criterion C: Difficulties result in clinically significant impairment in peer relationships, school participation, or social functioning
Symptoms
- Difficulty initiating or maintaining conversations
- Limited understanding of social cues such as tone of voice or body language
- Challenges with turn-taking or sharing in social situations
- Inappropriate responses during social interactions
Impact on functioning
- Difficulty forming or maintaining friendships
- Misunderstandings or conflicts with peers
- Reduced participation in group activities or classroom collaboration
- Social isolation or exclusion
- Reduced confidence in social situations