Illinois Law Enforcement Training and Standards Board (ILETSB) Practice Exam

What is a common behavior exhibited by individuals with autism?

1. Excessive social interactions

2. Indifference to touch or sound

3. Exhibiting rhythmic movement

4. Always recognizing danger

The correct answer is: Exhibiting rhythmic movement

Individuals with autism often exhibit rhythmic movement as a common behavior. This can include actions such as rocking back and forth, hand-flapping, spinning, or other repetitive motor activities. These behaviors are sometimes referred to as self-stimulatory behaviors (or "stimming") and are believed to help regulate sensory input or manage anxiety. They can serve as a coping mechanism to deal with overwhelming environments or experiences, providing comfort and a sense of control. The other options represent behaviors that do not accurately capture the typical presentations found in individuals with autism. For instance, excessive social interactions would be contrary to one of the hallmark characteristics of autism, which often includes challenges in social communication. Indifference to touch or sound may be relevant for some individuals, but many with autism are quite sensitive to sensory stimuli, which can lead to discomfort or distress. Always recognizing danger is not a guaranteed trait among individuals with autism, as their awareness and processing of social cues and safety can vary widely.