Understanding the autism spectrum

Numerous grant funding calls, as well as public and scientific debates are now focusing on the cause of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). While it is important that we search for the cause(s) of the disorder - in order to improve support, education, employment and so on for those on the spectrum - such an approach is problematic for two reasons. First, there is an implicit suggestion that the quest for a cause will be simple and thus achievable. Second, there is a general assumption that there...[Read More]

Autism spectrum disorder as a lifelong condition

Most of us are familiar in some way or another with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). We have seen news reports, watched films or documentaries trying to explain this puzzling condition and showing examples of a child's unusual social, communication and repetitive behaviours. We may know a child with ASD or have a child with ASD. Recent evidence suggests that about one per cent of the entire population (one in 100 people) fall somewhere on the spectrum (1,2). Whilst we still understand relative...[Read More]