"He makes eye-contact, so it can't be autism." Unfortunately, this is not always the case, especially with girls. Eye-contact is only one way that we use nonverbal communication, and sometimes eye-contact is not socially motivated. We use our eyes to gain information about our environment. The question about eye-contact is, are they gaining information, or trying to make or maintain social engagement. We do both all of the time; think about sitting in a classroom, you are gaining information. Or walking in the mall and a stranger makes eye contact with you, what do you do? Is it the same as if you saw someone you knew? Probably not. Eye-contact is one nonverbal communication, do you smile, look away, wave, shake your head? Those are additional nonverbal communication strategies. As you will learn about me, I'm usually more interested in what happens next.
Is eye-contact important? Yes. But more importantly is, what is also happening. Lack of eye-contact may be due to shyness, culture, embarrassment. There is no ONE definitive sign of autism, as with everything else in life, autism is complex, and different for everyone.
This blog is not meant to diagnose, treat, or offer medical services. My aim is to share information that may be helpful to you or someone you know. Have a suggestion for a topic, please share!