In today's world there is still little known about autism. Research continues to be conducted in a quest for answers. A six year study conducted by Jeffrey Hutsler, assistant professor of psychology at the University of Nevada, has been completed. The study takes a closer look at brain tissue that shows physical confirmation that there is short-range over-connectivity in the outer layer of the brain's cortex in those with autism disorders .
Science Daily reports, "This is in the layer of the cortex that is one of the last to develop, and a lot of these connections are refined after birth up to about age 4," Hutsler explained. "As you interact with the environment, you sculpt them out."
Those with autism are often disconnected from their environment and by disassociating from the environment this may cause issues with the sculpting process. If there is no reciprocal action with their surroundings this disconnect may have an effect on the development of this layer of the cortex.
An early intervention consisting of behavioral therapy for preschool aged children may aid in the disconnect from the environment.
In the study at the University's Early Childhood Autism Program consisted of children on the spectrum ranging from 2 to 5 years old for 2 years for at least 30 hours a week. The children were taught positive methods to enhance suitable interactions and decrease inappropriate actions.
The Early Childhood Autism Program demonstrated improvement in almost all the participates with a 50% increase in recovery from the disorder. When entering into elementary school the children appeared to be identical to their peers with no noticeable signs of autism according to program director , Patrick Ghezzi.
With this research into the brain tissue of those with autism, there is hope with early intervention.
Comments