The Executive Dysfunction Hypothesis for Autism Spectrum Disorder- A Neuroanatomical and Developmental Perspective

Abstract

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a perplexing neurodevelopmental disorder which attributes its cause to a profusion of reasons- genetic, environmental, and social. Since its inception, research has been generously apportioned to the genetic milieu, neglecting the socio-environmental and cultural foundations. This article reviews not only the brief history, diagnosis and the various theories postulated, but also presents a developmental perspective of the disorder, the executive dysfunction hypothesis and the neuroanatomy, concomitantly. Neuropsychological findings are elucidated along with certain deficiencies which are present in the diagnostic tools. Though this review focuses on numerous genetic underpinnings, a larger, comprehensive study should be devoted focusing on the possible environmental origins and subsequent contributions, and the socio-gender aspect of the disorder, to overcome an evident gender bias.