Deciphering Intricacies of ASD Mechanisms by Examining Rigid-Autonomous Phase Sequences

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«Understanding Sensorimotor Disorders in Autism Spectrum Disorders by Expanding Hebbian Theory: Formation of a Rigid-Autonomous Phase Sequence» – Perspectives of psychological science.

This study delves into the behavioral complexities of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) by introducing the concept of rigid-autonomous phase sequence (RAPS) formation. RAPS may be responsible for the cognitive, sensorimotor, and memory-related challenges faced by people with ASD. By uniting this knowledge under a single theoretical framework, this research paves the way for innovative treatments that promise a better future for people with ASD.

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex neuropsychiatric condition, marked by various cognitive and sensorimotor challenges, difficulties with social communication, and distinct behavioral patterns. While genetic factors are known to play a role, the intricate mechanisms that drive this condition remain elusive. Furthermore, there is a lack of a unified and comprehensive theoretical framework that can explain the behavioral abnormalities associated with ASD. In a study published online at Perspectives of psychological science On November 1, 2023, Professor Kenkichi Takase of the Department of Psychology at Chuo University, Japan, and Professor Eiichi Nojiri of the Graduate School of Human Sciences at Osaka University, Japan, expanded on the psychologist’s pioneering work Donald Olding Hebb to explore the underlying mind. Functionalities and their role in TEA. His work sheds light on the intricate connections within the brain while attempting to close existing gaps in our understanding of neurodevelopmental status.

Hebb’s ideas focused on the animistic nature of the mind, emphasizing that higher mental functions, such as learning, memory, and attention, are deeply rooted in the activities of the nervous system. These insights offered a comprehensive explanation of the generalization of perceptual learning, memory stability, and attention variability, forming a coordinated pattern of neural change.

But how does Hebb’s theory relate to autism and ASD?

This study picks up where Hebb’s work left off.

«We have extended Hebb’s theory, which showed how the mind works in the brain, to determine the cause of ASD,» say Professor Takase and Nojiri.

Researchers theorize that people with ASD exhibit an altered state of neural connections, which they refer to as RAPS. Unlike flexible neural pathways that allow for adaptability, RAPS can lead to cognitive, sensorimotor, and memory-related disorders. You can think of RAPS in the brain as train tracks that are stuck in one direction. This inflexible pathway makes it difficult for people with ASD to learn new things, since the train always arrives at the same station. It also causes the brain to remember certain things very well, such as vividly remembering specific objects or events. This unique brain pattern, characterized by its inflexibility, has the potential to explain many of the challenges that people with ASD face in their daily lives.

This article proposes that RAPS can explain a wide range of symptoms in people with ASD, encompassing social, cognitive, and motor difficulties. Theory suggests that RAPS interferes with the activation of other neural circuits, leading to the observed impairments in various functions. Therefore, the concept of RAPS can serve as a theoretical framework for understanding the underlying neural mechanisms that contribute to the various symptoms associated with ASD.

These discoveries carry immense potential to reshape our understanding of ASD, offering a unifying framework that transcends previous models. By explaining the wide range of symptoms associated with ASD through the lens of RAPS, the theory opens the door to the development of innovative treatments that target these neural patterns.

«If the cause of ASD can be identified, treatments can be found for ASD that were not previously treatable,» concludes Professor Takase.

The findings inspire the autism research community to delve deeper into this novel perspective, encouraging the development of interventions aimed at improving the lives of people with ASD. In essence, this study illuminates the possibility of more impactful therapies, instilling hope for a promising future for people on the autism spectrum.

Professor Kenkichi Takase (left): Kenkichi Takase, a distinguished expert in clinical developmental biopsychology at Chuo University, Japan, is known for his groundbreaking research on the interaction of biological, psychological and social factors that lead to specific abnormal behaviors. each sex in specific development processes. stages. Using rats and mice as essential animal models, his studies have led to numerous publications with more than 5,691 readings and 881 citations. Professor Takase’s work contributes significantly to the understanding of complex behaviors, shedding light on critical aspects of human and animal development. His groundbreaking research continues to shape the field, inspiring future research in the field of biopsychology.

Professor Eiichi Nojiri (right): Eiichi Nojiri, a leading philosopher at the Laboratory for Comparative Studies of Civilizations at Osaka University, is known for his innovative research style that examines human nature from an interdisciplinary perspective. In recent years, Professor Nojiri has been especially known in Japan as the leader of a collaborative research group on autism spectrum disorders with researchers from various disciplines. In 2019, he edited a book titled Introduction to Autism Studies written by scholars from eighteen academic disciplines, and in 2022 he successfully organized a large-scale metaverse event “Autism Studies Hyperconference!” involving academic researchers, businesses, nonprofit organizations, people with developmental disabilities, and lay participants. He provides the basic theoretical backbone and central philosophical concepts for this article.

Attribution/Source(s):

This peer-reviewed article related to our Autism Facts section was selected for publication by Disabled World editors because of its likely interest to our readers in the disability community. Although content may have been edited for style, clarity, or length, the article «Deciphering the complexities of ASD mechanisms by examining rigid and autonomous phase sequences» It was originally written by Chuo University and published by Disabled-World.com on 11/21/2023. If you require further information or clarification, you may contact Chuo University at chuo-u.ac.jp/english/. Disabled World makes no warranties or representations in connection therewith.

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