Signs of autism in a 12-year-old girl

Symptoms of autism in a 12-year-old girl may include: difficulties with social interaction, such as challenges in establishing and maintaining friendships with peers, lack of eye contact and facial expressions, and reduced responsiveness to others' emotions and needs; impairments in communication, which may manifest as limited speech, unclear expression, or repetitive use of certain phrases, as well as difficulty engaging in or understanding complex conversations; restricted and repetitive patterns of interests and behaviors, such as intense preoccupation with specific interests or activities (e.g., repeatedly manipulating a particular toy or object), and strong resistance to changes in routine; and emotional and behavioral issues, including anxiety, irritability, self-injurious behaviors, or aggression. These symptoms can vary significantly among individuals, but parents and educators should closely monitor for signs and seek professional support promptly to assist the girl's development and adaptation.