Ohio Assessments for Educators (OAE) Special Education Practice Exam

What are some key characteristics of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)?

1. High verbal skills but low social interaction

2. Impairments in social, language skills, and repetitive behavior

3. Strong imagination and creative play

4. Advanced mathematical abilities

The correct answer is: Impairments in social, language skills, and repetitive behavior

The selected answer highlights central characteristics associated with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) as outlined in diagnostic criteria and clinical observations. Individuals with ASD typically exhibit impairments in social skills, which can manifest as difficulty in forming and maintaining relationships, understanding social cues, and engaging in reciprocal social interaction. Language skills may also be affected, leading to challenges in both verbal and non-verbal communication, including trouble with exchanges in conversation or understanding contextual language. Furthermore, repetitive behaviors, which are another hallmark of ASD, can include repetitive motions (like hand-flapping or rocking), insistence on sameness, and a focused interest in specific topics or activities. These behavioral patterns often distinguish ASD from other developmental disorders as they are a significant part of the diagnostic criteria. In contrast, other options may reference skills that, while they can be present in some individuals with ASD, are not defining features of the disorder as a whole. For example, while some children with autism may have strong verbal skills or advanced mathematical abilities, these traits do not characterize the spectrum itself. Similarly, strong imagination and creative play are not consistently reported traits, as many children with ASD struggle with imaginative play and may prefer structured activities instead. Thus, the comprehensive nature of impairments in social skills, language