What Is Barron Trump's Relationship to Autism? Autism Is a Complex Neurodevelopmental Disorder Characterized by Challenges with Social Skills, Repetitive Behaviors, Speech and Nonverbal Communication, as Well as by Unique Strengths and Differences. It Varies from Person to Person and Is Not Defined by One Specific Set of Signs and Symptoms. People with Autism May Be Under- or over-Sensitive to Sounds, Touch, Tastes, Smells, Light, or Colors.