Neurofeedback
Neurofeedback Types
Autism
Attention Deficit Disorder
Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
Epilepsy
Tourette's Syndrome
Signs of Autism
Autism Treatment
Autism Support
Brainwave Definitions
Autistic Spectrum Disorders
Asperger's Syndrome
Pervasive Developmental Disorder
Autistic Disorder
Rett's Syndrome
Causes of Autism
Autism Symptoms
Case Study of Autism
Neurofeedback Article
The Lighthouse Network
Defeat Autism Now
Parent of Autistic Child
C.O.S.A.C.
Autism Society of America
Autism Research
Autism Contributions
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Brain Development
| Although there is no known single cause of autism, it is generally accepted that it is caused by abnormalities in brain structure and/or function. Brain scans show marked differences in the shape and structure of the brain in autistic versus non-autistic children. Also, studies that have been done on frontal lobe and parietal lobe brain development in autism indicate that ‘the parietal lobes are reduced in volume in a portion of the autistic population.’ (Univ. California School of Medicine, San Diego, 1993). |
Heredity
| In many families, there appears to be a pattern of autism or related disabilities, supporting the theory that there is a genetic basis to the disorder. Although no single gene has been definitively linked with causing autism, researchers are searching for irregular segments of genetic code that autistic children may have inherited. It also seems that some children are born with a predisposition or susceptibility to autism. However, researchers have not identified a ‘trigger’ that causes the development of autism. |
Pre-Natal Exposure
| Others are researching the correlation between the development of autism and problems during pregnancy or delivery. Some harmful substances ingested during pregnancy also have been associated with an increased risk of autism. Early in 2002, The Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR) prepared a literature review of hazardous chemical exposures and autism and found no compelling evidence for an association; however, there was very limited research and more needs to be done. |
Environment
| Environmental factors such as viral infections, metabolic imbalances and exposure to environmental chemicals are also possible causes of autism. |
Immunization
MMR Injection
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Studies of the relationship between autism and immunizations continue. A 2001 investigation by the Institute of Medicine concluded that ‘evidence favors rejection of a causal relationship.... between MMR vaccines and autistic spectrum disorders (ASD).’ However, The Institute of Medicine committee that completed this investigation ‘could not rule out’ the possibility that the MMR vaccine could contribute to ASD in a small number of children. Many parents of autistic children dispute these findings because they can chronologically pinpoint changes in their child’s behavior to occurring subsequent to receiving the MMR vaccine. |
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