Lack of 'Mirror Neurons' Linked to Autism

FruFox writes "A recent study has pointed to a possible link between autism and lack of so-called 'mirror neurons' , either physically or functionally. This provides the first solid physical evidence to back up the theory that autism's root cause is a profound lack of empathy. This probably impacts the world of Asperger's Syndrome as well. Many Slashdot readers are undoubtedly familiar with the world of Asperger's / autism."

Comments

Good

[GigsVT]

The closer we get to a biological cause of autism, the sooner we can debunk Aspergers.

I'm kidding myself though, they'll just say it must not have the same cause because the people with so-called Aspergers won't show the biological symptom.

Re:Good

[Marxist Hacker 42]

I use a GPS unit to find my way home- takes me about 20 trips to actually remember the route, as opposed to the businesses along the route. I was self-diagnosed, but since I fit 10/10 behaviors, when I needed the designation it was easy to become truly diagnosed.

I disagree with the idea of "debunking" Aspergers- but there is a real need to stop calling it a disease (it's not- it's a slight mental disorder at worst) and institutionalizing people for it (a spouse works as well as an assisted living center would for me). Likewise, I support removing the stereotypical male behaviors from the diagnoses of Asperger's and ADHD- as misdiagnoses are high and boys whose female teachers can't handle basic typical male behavior get drugged in public schools when they really don't need to be.