What disorder is characterized by deficits in social interaction and communication skills, often with repetitive behaviors?

The disorder characterized by deficits in social interaction and communication skills, along with repetitive behaviors, is Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). This condition encompasses a range of symptoms and severity levels, which is reflected in the term "spectrum." Individuals with ASD may struggle with understanding social cues, forming relationships, and may engage in repetitive actions or have restricted interests. The diagnostic criteria focus on the challenges faced in social communication and the presence of restricted or repetitive patterns of behavior.

In contrast, anxiety disorders primarily involve excessive worry or fear that can hamper daily functioning, but do not specifically include the communication and social interaction deficits found in ASD. Serious mental illness is a broad term that encompasses a variety of mental health diagnoses, but it does not pinpoint the specific symptomatology of social interaction and repetitive behaviors. Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is mainly characterized by inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsiveness, which differs from the core features of social and communicative deficits associated with ASD.

Thus, Autism Spectrum Disorder is uniquely defined by the combination of social communication challenges and repetitive behaviors, making it the accurate choice in this context.