A nurse is assessing a 5-year-old boy and suspects that the child may have an autism spectrum disorder. Which finding would help support the nurse's suspicions?

Choice A rationale Being easily distracted from playing is a common finding in many children and is a hallmark symptom of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), not a core diagnostic feature of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Children with ASD often exhibit hyperfocus or intense, restricted interests and may resist interruption of their preferred activities or routines, showing low rather than high distractibility within their focus. Choice B rationale Hypersensitivity to touch, along with other sensory input irregularities (hypo- or hypersensitivity to sound, light, taste, or smell), is a common finding in children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). This sensory processing difference contributes to difficulties with daily functioning, social interaction, and emotional regulation, making it a key supportive characteristic for the suspected diagnosis. Choice C rationale Children with typical development show distinct interest in others around them and often seek out social interaction and engagement, which is essential for forming relationships. A key diagnostic criterion for ASD is persistent deficits in social communication and social interaction, which typically manifests as a lack of interest in or difficulty engaging with peers and sharing emotions, supporting the opposite finding. Choice D rationale Engaging in conversations with an imaginary friend is considered a normal, healthy part of imaginative, symbolic play development in many preschool-aged children (typically between 3 and 7 years old). In contrast, children with ASD often demonstrate deficits in symbolic or imaginative play and are more likely to engage in repetitive play patterns or use objects in non-functional ways.