1. Social Development
2. Behavioral Differences
3. Impaired Communications
4. Sensory Integration Difficulties
5. Incidence
6. Causation
7. Interventions

Causation

The one thing scientists do know is that autism is NOT caused by bad parenting, emotional stress or "refrigerator mothers".

The most recent studies suggest there is genetic component to Autistic Spectrum Disorders. However, scientists do not know if genetics is the sole factor, or if there are environmental triggers.

There is a lot of controversy about what causes Autistic Spectrum Disorders.

The most controversial theory concerns vaccinations, or more specifically the addition of thimerosal, a mercury based preservative in some vaccines, including the MMR. Thimerosal has not been an additive in vaccines in Canada since 1997, and was removed from vaccines in Nova Scotia and other provinces much earlier. Several large epidemiological studies have reported no evidence to suggest a link between vaccines and ASD. Research is ongoing.

Other theories include the influence environmental toxins or pollution. There is some speculation that autism is allergy induced by gluten and casein, found in wheat and milk based products. Recent studies have suggested that extraordinary brain growth in early infancy could be an indicator of autism.

Research into causation and into therapies is ongoing, and much of this work is being done in Canada. For more information on research, please check our Autism Resources.