Social Interaction, Sensory & Information Processing, and Genetic Discoveries in ASD – What is the Research Telling Us?

Dr. Nancy Minshew
Director, Center for Excellence in Autism Research,
Professor of Psychiatry and Neurology,
School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh
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Dr. Minshew’s research indicates that autism impacts the behav­ioral function of the brain very broadly. It affects sensory, motor, memory and postural control in addition to the diagnostic triad of abilities—anything that requires a high degree of integration of information. Dr. Minshew believes that autistic symptoms are most pronounced in social interaction, communication and problem solving because they require the highest degree of information processing and interaction. In this presentation, Dr. Minshew will talk about how individuals with autism think and how their brain operates across a broad range of abilities from sensory processing to problem solving. These findings have major implications for daily intervention and interactions. She will also present on some of the latest genetic discoveries and their promise for future treatment.