Is Not Smiling Socially an Early Sign of Autism?

PostedNovember 5, 2025

UpdatedNovember 5, 2025

ByMy Patient Advice

Author: Lucia Alvarez, MSc | Reviewed by: Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Yes, lack of social smiling in autism can be an early sign that suggests a child may have autism. Social smiling is an important milestone in early development, typically seen when babies begin to engage with others and respond to social cues, such as familiar faces or playful interactions. When a child doesn’t smile in these social situations, it could indicate challenges with social engagement or emotional connection, which are often observed in children with autism.

Children with autism may not respond to social stimuli in the same way as neurotypical children. They may struggle to understand the social value of smiling, or they may not recognise when others are expecting a smile in return. This can affect their ability to form connections or engage socially in typical ways.

How Lack of Social Smiling in Autism Manifests

Recognising reduced social smiling as a possible early sign of autism:

Delayed or Limited Smiling:

Children with autism may not smile when interacting with caregivers or familiar people, even during joyful or playful moments. They might smile in other contexts but not as a response to social interaction.

Difficulty with Emotional Expression:

Many children with autism struggle with expressing emotions in socially expected ways. They may have difficulty displaying facial expressions like smiles, laughter, or other indicators of happiness, which can impact how they connect with others.

Challenges with Social Engagement:

Lack of social smiles is often linked to broader issues with social engagement. Children may not initiate or respond to social invitations in typical ways, such as engaging in joint attention or interactive play.

Recognising lack of social smiling in autism can help parents and caregivers address social and emotional development challenges. For expert advice and tailored consultations, visit providers like Autism Detect for one-on-one support specific to your child’s needs.

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to Early Signs & Symptoms of Autism.

Lucia Alvarez, MSc

Author

Lucia Alvarez is a clinical psychologist with a Master’s in Clinical Psychology and extensive experience providing evidence-based therapy and psychological assessment to children, adolescents, and adults. Skilled in CBT, DBT, and other therapeutic interventions, she has worked in hospital, community, and residential care settings. Her expertise includes grief counseling, anxiety management, and resilience-building, with a strong focus on creating safe, supportive environments to improve mental well-being.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the author's privacy.

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Reviewer

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez is a UK-trained physician with an MBBS and experience in general surgery, cardiology, internal medicine, gynecology, intensive care, and emergency medicine. She has managed critically ill patients, stabilised acute trauma cases, and provided comprehensive inpatient and outpatient care. In psychiatry, Dr. Fernandez has worked with psychotic, mood, anxiety, and substance use disorders, applying evidence-based approaches such as CBT, ACT, and mindfulness-based therapies. Her skills span patient assessment, treatment planning, and the integration of digital health solutions to support mental well-being.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the reviewer's privacy.