Which of the following is a characteristic feature of an absence seizure?

The characteristic feature of an absence seizure is brief lapses of consciousness. During an absence seizure, which is typically seen in children, the individual has a sudden interruption in their awareness, often lasting just a few seconds. This can lead to a momentary lack of responsiveness, making it appear as though the person is "daydreaming" or staring blankly into space.

Other features often accompanying absence seizures include the rapid onset and recovery, with little to no postictal confusion, allowing individuals to resume activities almost immediately. Unlike other types of seizures, the person does not display significant motor activity or awareness during these episodes, which distinguishes them from more complex seizures that may involve convulsive movements or alterations in consciousness.

Muscle contractions, loss of muscle tone, or maintained awareness are not typical characteristics of absence seizures, reinforcing that brief lapses of consciousness is indeed the correct focus when identifying these types of seizures.