sounds or textures, excessive smelling or touc hing of objects, fascination with lights or
spinning objects, and sometimes apparent indi fference to pain, heat, or cold. Extreme re-
action to or rituals involving taste, smell, te xture, or appearance of  food or excessive food
restrictions are common and ma y be a presenting feature of  autism spectrum disorder.
Many adults with autism spectrum disord er without intellectual or language disabili-
ties learn to suppress repetitive behavior in  public . Specia l interests may  be a source of
pleasure and motivation and provide avenues for education and employment later in life.
Diagnostic criteria may be met when restricted, repetitive patterns of behavior, interests,
or activities were clearly pres ent during childhood or at some time in the past, even if
symptoms are no longer present.