Etiology of autism: A review of recent biogenic theories and research

Kathryne M. Cammisa, Stephen H. Hobbs

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

4 Scopus citations

Abstract

Infantile autism is a complex behavioral syndrome of unknown etiology.Recent research has shifted away from psychogenic hypotheses to a variety of possible genetic, neuroanatomical, neurophysiological and neurotransmitter causes.The present paper examines very recent research concerned with these major biogenic hypotheses.Linkages among the various hypotheses are explored, along with problems in conducting empirical research in this area.The review concludes with an analysis of the current state of understanding of the biological bases of autism and a discussion of implications of biogenic hypotheses for clinicians, educators and parents who work with autistic individuals.The principal conclusion of the review is that despite many promising hypotheses, the current literature is filled with conflicting findings and no one hypothesis has appeared to take center stage.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)39-67
Number of pages29
JournalOccupational Therapy in Mental Health
Volume12
Issue number2
DOIs
StatePublished - Jun 4 1993
Externally publishedYes

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Applied Psychology
  • Public Health, Environmental and Occupational Health
  • Psychiatry and Mental health

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