The Active But Odd Group.

In terms of social behaviour the first two groups generally do not initiate social interaction, the aloof group avoiding or rejecting it and the passive group accepting it. The third group however may be seem to attempt to initiate interaction and to approach other individuals but may do so in peculiar and inappropriate manners³⁹. The purpose of such attempts may be less to do with developing relationships with others and more to do with indulging specific, often stereotyped, interests or activities. For example member of this group may talk incessantly on a topic of their own interest without regard for the listener. In general speech and language is further developed than the first two groups but development is still delayed and often not completed in the normal manner. Speech may be in the form of long, complex sentences and phrases which have been memorised (probably in response to hearing someone else use it in conversation). Literal use and interpretation of language is common resulting both in comical and problematic consequences. Many of the conversational skills and etiquette that most people develop to some degree or another is lacking.

Other skills of communication such as tone of voice and use of eye contact are obviously different from what is considered normal. Individuals in this group may have a form of limited pretend play in which they construct an imaginary scenario or identity which is used repetitively and with little variation. These are often closely based on observed events or characters (such as those seen on television) with little adaptation or generalisation. This is well demonstrated through the surprising accuracy with which they can recall and reconstruct past events in the form of play. This fits in with studies which suggest that the play deficit of autistic children is in generating imaginary or pretend ideas, once these ideas are developed or attained play based on pretence is not distinctly different from non-autistic children [references]. This is one of the major manifestations of stereotyped and repetitive behaviour within this group. Other such activities or interests are similar to those seen in the first two groups and can vary from simple actions (such as spinning) to complex routines or interests (such as memorising bus timetables).

Clumsiness and poor general motor co-ordination may be common. So too is a higher level of general functioning and higher I.Q. scores. Problematic behaviour can result from inappropriate topics of discussion or questioning and individuals are often seen as being persistent and pestering and this can result in criticism. As sensitivity is often higher then usual temper tantrums and aggression may be a consequence. Along with the passive group an identification and diagnosis of an autistic spectrum disorder is often delayed in this group, relative to the more typical aloof group. A detailed history will generally clarify the diagnosis. It is quite possible for the higher-functioning individuals to be referred on behavioural or possible psychiatric grounds before diagnosis is made. In general this group is better represented by Asperger’s syndrome and by some individuals with high functioning autism.