Understanding Autism

Up until the 1960s, doctors believed autism was a result of poor parenting — cold, aloof mothers were to blame for a child’s social and communication difficulties and repetitive behaviors. Today, we know that’s not the case, and that a number of genetic and environmental factors contribute to the developmental disorder.

Click the buttons below to learn about some of the latest discoveries in autism research and the people behind them.

About the Author

Kristina Reznikov

Kristina is the former web communications specialist for BrainFacts.org. She formerly worked as the publications director for a legal publications company in Washington, DC.