What is elopement related to Autism?

• A. When they communicate with caregivers
• B. When they display extreme fear in crowds
• C. When an autistic person wanders and bolts from safety
• D. When they engage in repetitive movements

Answer: (C)

Elopement is when an autistic person wanders away from a caregiver or from a safe area, effectively bolting to roam without supervision. This behavior creates serious safety risks because they may not recognize danger, can move toward traffic, water, or other hazards, and may not respond to calls or warnings. Understanding this helps explain why supervision plans, identification, and preventive safety strategies are emphasized for individuals with autism.

It's not about communicating with caregivers, nor about extreme fear in crowds, nor about repetitive movements. Those describe different autism-related behaviors, while elopement specifically refers to leaving a safe location unsupervised.