Abnormalities In Autistic Brains and Behavioral Consequences

Authors

  • Bahar Afsahi Canyon Crest Academy

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.47611/jsrhs.v12i3.5061

Keywords:

autism, neuroscience, cognition, cortical organization, autistic behavior, behavior

Abstract

Autism is a neurological disorder known to manifest in certain classical behaviors. These behaviors include difficulty with social interaction, repetitive behaviors, communication difficulties, sensory issues and obsessive interests. Human behaviors are not only determined by the interactions within certain sections of the brain; rather, they are a result of complex interactions of neurons and chemical changes throughout the brain. This combinatory quality of the brain makes it difficult to pinpoint the exact areas that cause autistic behaviors. This paper reviews recently published studies on genetics, neuropsychology, brain imaging, and pathology of the autistic brain, in order to summarize the state of the literature on the specific differences in autistic brains. There is scientific consensus that the amygdala, frontal and temporal lobes, cerebellum, prefrontal cortex, synaptic plasticity and cortical organization have significant abnormalities in the autistic brain. These differences contribute to the manifestation of the classical symptoms of autism. Further research should focus on treatment and provision of new therapies for autistic individuals.


Keywords: autism, neuroscience, cognition, cortical organization

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Author Biography

Bahar Afsahi, Canyon Crest Academy

Bahar Afsahi is a Junior at Canyon Crest Academy. She is deeply passionate about STEM fields, particularly physics, math and neuroscience. As a successful student who also volunteers at Helen Woodward Therapeutic Riding, Bahar challenged herself with understanding the biological reasoning behind Autism. This research paper is her first exposure to the complex and intriguing world of neuroscience research.

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Published

08-31-2023

How to Cite

Afsahi, B. (2023). Abnormalities In Autistic Brains and Behavioral Consequences. Journal of Student Research, 12(3). https://doi.org/10.47611/jsrhs.v12i3.5061

Issue

Section

HS Review Articles