Autism

For autistic adults navigating the unwritten rules of social interaction, artificial intelligence might offer a helpful practice tool. Recent research demonstrates that short sessions with a specialized chatbot can improve empathetic communication in real-world settings.

Social misunderstandings in autism may stem from highly varied personal preferences rather than a lack of empathy. New research shows both autistic and non-autistic people struggle to guess what autistic teenagers like.

The human brain utilizes deep folds to maximize the storage capacity of neural tissue. New anatomical research shows the physical symmetry of one specific fold linked to emotional processing behaves differently in boys with autism spectrum disorder.

A new geographical psychology study reveals that a state's socioeconomic status and air pollution levels are the strongest predictors of its autism rates, explaining over half the geographic variance in diagnoses across the United States.

Sensory differences in autistic adults—particularly women—are linked to high levels of sexual distress. A new study suggests this emotional distress acts as a bridge, indirectly lowering both sexual and relational satisfaction in romantic partnerships.

Autistic children with early language delays show a unique auditory profile, prioritizing pitch over timing. According to recent research, this enhanced pitch perception could explain how some autistic individuals acquire language skills through unconventional learning methods.

A comprehensive review found a strong link between autistic traits and the tendency to camouflage. Surprisingly, this connection appears stronger in the general population than among those formally diagnosed with autism.

Researchers have successfully reversed autism-like behaviors in mice by repairing shortened structures within specific nerve cells. The study provides evidence that core symptoms of the disorder may stem from adaptable brain changes rather than irreversible damage.

New brain imaging research reveals that individuals with higher autistic traits show weaker connections between visual and reward-processing brain regions, explaining why they may place less value on social rewards like smiles compared to nonsocial rewards.

Aging adults with high autistic traits face a significantly greater risk of worsening anxiety over time, according to new research. The findings highlight a pressing need for targeted mental health support for older individuals on the autism spectrum.

Scientists have discovered two biologically distinct subtypes of autism using brain imaging. By studying both mice and humans, researchers linked reduced brain connectivity to synaptic function and increased connectivity to immune system activity.

A 23-year study shows that IQ alone doesn't dictate an autistic person's ability to learn daily life skills. Researchers found most participants developed practical skills matching their intelligence, indicating that autistic individuals can master independent tasks over time.

A new study in Nature reveals that a specific non-coding genetic sequence shapes the core social and repetitive traits of autism in males. The discovery separates these hallmark behaviors from intellectual disability, leaving learning and memory intact.

When toys are present in a room, young children with autism often focus their visual attention on the objects rather than human faces. Removing visual clutter can gently encourage neurodivergent toddlers to spend more time observing social interactions.

An intense dislike of the unknown is a major source of anxiety for people with autistic traits. A new study explores how putting complex feelings into words is associated with managing this discomfort.