Chapter 6 - Emerging Empirical Evidence Supporting Connectivity-Guided Neurofeedback for Autistic Disorders

Abstract

This chapter focuses on autistic spectrum disorders (ASD) are a heterogeneous group of pervasive developmental disorders including autistic disorder, Rett disorder, childhood disintegrative disorder, pervasive developmental disorder-not otherwise specified (PDD-NOS), and Asperger disorder. Children with ASD demonstrate impairment in social interaction, verbal and nonverbal communication, and behaviors or interests. ASD may be comorbid with sensory integration difficulties, mental retardation, or seizure disorders. Children with ASD may have severe sensitivity to sounds, textures, tastes, and smells. Cognitive deficits are often associated with impaired communication skills. Repetitive stereotyped behaviors, perseveration, and obsessionality, common in ASD, are associated with executive deficits. Executive dysfunction in inhibitory control and set shifting have been attributed to ASD. Seizure disorders may occur in one out of four children with ASD, frequently beginning in early childhood or adolescence.