Autism spectrum disorder is characterized by all but which of the following categories of symptoms?

• A. Hallucinations and delusions
• B. Restricted, repetitive patterns of behavior or interests
• C. Deficits in social communication and interaction
• D. Sensory sensitivities

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the core symptom categories of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). ASD is primarily characterized by deficits in social communication and interaction, restricted and repetitive patterns of behavior or interests, and sensory sensitivities.
2. Step 2: Review the list of symptoms provided in the problem: 'Hallucinations and delusions', 'Restricted, repetitive patterns of behavior or interests', 'Deficits in social communication and interaction', and 'Sensory sensitivities'.
3. Step 3: Recognize that hallucinations and delusions are typically symptoms associated with psychotic disorders, such as schizophrenia, and are not characteristic of ASD.
4. Step 4: Compare each symptom category to the known diagnostic criteria for ASD to identify which one does not belong.
5. Step 5: Conclude that 'Hallucinations and delusions' is the symptom category that is not characteristic of Autism Spectrum Disorder.