Which disorder is characterized by deficits in social relatedness and communication skills?

Which disorder is characterized by deficits in social relatedness and communication skills?

• A. Intellectual Disabilities
• B. Autism Spectrum Disorder
• C. Behavioral/Emotional Disorders
• D. Physical Disabilities

Answer: (B)

The disorder characterized by deficits in social relatedness and communication skills is Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Individuals with ASD often struggle with understanding social cues, engaging in conversation, and forming relationships, which are core aspects of social interaction. They may exhibit difficulties in initiating and maintaining conversations, understanding nonverbal cues like gestures and expressions, and appropriately responding to social situations. These challenges can vary widely among individuals on the spectrum, leading to a diverse range of capabilities and needs. This characteristic is distinct from the other disorders mentioned. For instance, while individuals with intellectual disabilities may also face communication challenges, their primary difficulty is typically related to cognitive functioning rather than social interaction specifically. Behavioral/emotional disorders may involve social skills deficits, but they are more often related to emotional regulation and behavior management. Physical disabilities, on the other hand, pertain primarily to mobility or physical function and do not inherently involve deficits in social relatedness or communication skills. Therefore, Autism Spectrum Disorder is the disorder that most clearly fits the description provided.

The disorder characterized by deficits in social relatedness and communication skills is Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Individuals with ASD often struggle with understanding social cues, engaging in conversation, and forming relationships, which are core aspects of social interaction. They may exhibit difficulties in initiating and maintaining conversations, understanding nonverbal cues like gestures and expressions, and appropriately responding to social situations. These challenges can vary widely among individuals on the spectrum, leading to a diverse range of capabilities and needs.

This characteristic is distinct from the other disorders mentioned. For instance, while individuals with intellectual disabilities may also face communication challenges, their primary difficulty is typically related to cognitive functioning rather than social interaction specifically. Behavioral/emotional disorders may involve social skills deficits, but they are more often related to emotional regulation and behavior management. Physical disabilities, on the other hand, pertain primarily to mobility or physical function and do not inherently involve deficits in social relatedness or communication skills. Therefore, Autism Spectrum Disorder is the disorder that most clearly fits the description provided.