Which of the following is a common characteristic of individuals with autism?

Individuals with autism often exhibit patterns of self-stimulating behaviors, also known as “stimming.” These behaviors can include repetitive movements such as hand-flapping, rocking, spinning, or other forms of sensory-seeking actions. Stimming serves various functions for individuals with autism, such as self-regulation, stress relief, or an expression of excitement. These behaviors can help individuals manage overwhelming sensory input or communicate their emotions when they may lack other verbal or non-verbal communication skills.

The other options, while they might apply to some individuals on the autism spectrum, do not represent common characteristics as clearly as self-stimulating behaviors do. Improved social interactions and frequent eye contact are typically challenges faced by many individuals with autism, and advanced verbal communication skills can vary widely; many individuals may actually have delays or differences in communication. Thus, self-stimulating behaviors stand out as a more consistently recognized characteristic of autism.