Which of the following is a commonly recognized sign of fetal alcohol syndrome?

Fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS) is a condition resulting from alcohol exposure during pregnancy, leading to a range of physical and developmental issues in the child. One of the hallmark indicators of FAS is a smooth philtrum, which refers to the absence of the normal groove between the upper lip and the nose. This physical characteristic is often used as a diagnostic feature because it is relatively unique to FAS and signifies the impact alcohol has on facial development in fetuses.

In contrast, aspects such as high energy levels, excessive growth, and forming strong bonds with peers do not typically align with the effects of fetal alcohol exposure, which often results in growth deficiencies, behavioral issues, and social difficulties. Therefore, identifying a smooth philtrum serves as an important and recognized sign when assessing for fetal alcohol syndrome.