BCAT Autism Spectrum Disorder Knowledge 2

Question 1

According to the DSM-5, autism spectrum disorder is characterized by deficits in which two core domains?

Accepted Answer

Social communication and restricted/repetitive behaviors

Answer

The DSM-5 defines ASD by persistent deficits in social communication/interaction and restricted, repetitive patterns of behavior.

Question 2

A child with ASD engages in hand-flapping when excited. This behavior is best classified as:

Accepted Answer

A stereotyped motor movement, a form of restricted/repetitive behavior

Answer

Hand-flapping is a stereotyped/repetitive motor movement, which falls under the restricted and repetitive behaviors criterion of ASD.

Question 3

Which of the following best describes 'theory of mind' deficits in individuals with ASD?

Accepted Answer

Impaired ability to attribute mental states to oneself and others

Answer

Theory of mind deficits refer to difficulty understanding that others have thoughts, beliefs, and perspectives different from one's own.

Question 4

Sensory hyper-reactivity in a child with ASD is best described as:

Accepted Answer

An unusually strong response to sensory stimuli that others find mild

Answer

Hyper-reactivity means an exaggerated or heightened response to sensory stimuli that most people would not find aversive.

Question 5

Which early developmental red flag for ASD is most commonly identified by 12 months of age?

Accepted Answer

Lack of joint attention and pointing

Answer

Lack of joint attention (sharing focus on objects/events with others) and pointing are key early social-communication red flags by 12 months.

(BCAT) Board Certified Autism Technician Practice Test