Some reason's why learning about autism is valuable to us.

[Guest guest]

This is where the research money, time and focus is at the moment,

and much of what doctors/scientists are looking at is intimately important

to us.

>

We know there is a gross lack of knowledge of the effects of psychotropic

drugs on children. Autism research is generating some of this much needed

information.

Autism researchers are pouring over the brain with the most sophisticated

tests

available-new generation PET scans and Functional MRI's, and I don't even

know what else.

>

They are looking hard in the areas Social/Emotional learning and

communication, and How and

Where this transpires in the brain, and at the mechanics of Visual and

Auditory information processing.

>

They are looking hard at the Genetic factors, and possible relationships to

defined etiologies.

>

They are looking hard at Immune System Dysfunction.

>

They are exploring environmental causative agents.

>

And all of this is happening in a big way. How long before it's 'certified'

and generally accepted

in another story.

>

We can't jump to assumptions. But we can keep an eye on current developments,

occasionally drag a puzzle piece over, and see if it helps for any or some

of us.

>

There's some adage here, " follow the money trail " maybe?

in Ma.