SimplifiedAutismResearch

Introduction   Making sense of emotions through facial expressions is a fundamental skill for navigating the complexities of social interaction. A recent study published in Scientific Reports (April 2024) delves into this very topic, exploring how preschoolers with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) process emotions using eye gaze and pupil dilation.   Unveiling the Language of … Read more

  Introduction   The world is a whirlwind of sights and sounds, but how we choose to focus our attention shapes our experiences. This is especially true for young children, who are constantly bombarded with new information. In the case of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), understanding how children direct their attention can provide valuable insights … Read more

Introduction   The fight for inclusion and representation is a constant struggle for many marginalized groups. The autistic community in Ontario, Canada, is no exception. While strides have been made in recent years towards autism awareness and acceptance, a new study published in March 2024 by Cheuk Ming Tsang exposes a concerning reality: the silencing … Read more

Introduction   Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental condition that affects millions of individuals worldwide. Fortunately, the field of autism research is constantly evolving, seeking to improve the lives of autistic individuals and their families. A recent study published in March 2024 sheds light on a promising approach: Community-Based Participatory Research (CBPR). This … Read more

Introduction   Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and autism spectrum disorder (ASD) are neurodevelopmental conditions that can significantly impact a person’s life. While they have distinct characteristics, there can be a confusing overlap in symptoms, making diagnosis a challenge for both healthcare professionals and families. A recent systematic review published in March 2024 by the Journal of … Read more

Introduction   Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) affects individuals in a multitude of ways, and motor stereotypies – repetitive movements or behaviors – are a common symptom experienced by many. Until recently, the underlying mechanisms of these stereotypies remained unclear. However, a promising new study published in PNAS Nexus in March 2024 offers valuable insights into … Read more

Introduction   For many children, bedtime is a time for winding down, preparing for a night of restorative sleep. But for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), a good night’s sleep can be an elusive dream. Sleep problems are a frequent comorbidity in these neurodevelopmental conditions, impacting not just … Read more

  Introduction   The landscape of adolescence is complex, marked by self-discovery, social navigation, and the emergence of identity. For transgender and gender diverse (TGD) youth, this journey can be further nuanced by the exploration of gender identity alongside potential neurodevelopmental differences. A recent study published in March 2024, titled “Diagnostic assessment of autism spectrum … Read more

introduction   Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) affects millions of people worldwide, impacting how they interact with the world and experience social situations. While the causes of ASD remain a complex puzzle, researchers are continuously piecing together the picture. A recent study published in March 2024 in the journal Neuroscience offers a fascinating glimpse into a … Read more

Introduction   The kitchen – a place filled with delicious aromas, the clatter of pots and pans, and the warmth of family togetherness. But for parents of pre-verbal children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), the kitchen can also present challenges in fostering social communication skills. Here’s where a ray of hope emerges from a recent … Read more