Theories that propose that autism is a singular underlying developmental trait that causes its core features (differences in social communication and restricted or repetitive behaviors) are not supported by current evidence, according to a commentary published in Autism Research. Taken together, evidence showing that 1) large differences exist between autistic individuals and neurotypical peers on core autistic traits and 2) the relationships among core autistic traits in the general population are mostly equivalent to those within a group of autistic individuals, is incompatible with such theories. 

The commentary is authored by Sean McWeeny, PhD, Research Scientist, Ewen Laboratory, Stanley Manne Children’s Research Institute, and Joshua Ewen, MD, Division Head of Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics at Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago, and Professor of Pediatrics (Developmental Behavioral Pediatrics) at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine. 

Understanding the origins of core autistic traits is fundamental to treatment and support approaches; an approach that focuses on one core trait and assuming it will help downstream outcomes is very different from one that independently addresses a wide range of behaviors for which a given child may need support. Dr. McWeeny, the lead author, explains that much of the data to support their conclusions has already been published, and by utilizing computational models (math that generates data predicted from theories), they can show which theories align with the knowledge already generated about autism. 

Drs. McWeeny and Ewen aim to expand this line of research beyond the most fundamental autistic traits to a wide range of the origins of associated autistic traits, including motor and sensory differences in autistic people. Understanding the whole causal picture will allow them to make their interventions and supports as efficient as possible, reducing burden on families and the healthcare system. 

Pediatric research at Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago is conducted through Stanley Manne Children’s Research Institute.