What does Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) affect in an individual?

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental condition that affects various aspects of an individual's functioning. One of the key characteristics of ASD is the way it influences sensory processing. Individuals with ASD may experience heightened or diminished sensitivity to sensory input, which can affect their ability to understand and respond to various sensory stimuli such as sound, light, touch, and taste.

This sensory processing issue is integral to understanding how ASD manifests in different individuals, as it can lead to unique challenges in their daily lives. For example, some may find certain sounds overwhelming, while others may seek out sensory experiences that others might avoid.

While social interaction, cognitive abilities, and physical development can also be impacted by ASD, the critical aspect highlighted in the context of this question pertains to the broader sensory experience and processing difficulties associated with the disorder. This illustrates that ASD does not limit itself to one domain but encompasses a wide range of challenges, including sensory understanding.