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Autism and attention: Theoretical considerations and a pilot study using set reaction time

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Summary

We have presented an attentional model that may have value in the pathophysiology of autism. We have presented data that suggest attentional dysfunction and an attentional hypothesis that may explain autism's multisensory clinical appearance and natural history. Only further studies will be able to evaluate this hypothesis and hopefully provide us with something more promising to offer parent and child in the way of therapy.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Yale Child Study Center, USA

    Janice R. Gold MEd (Associate)

  2. Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, CMHC, 06520, Connecticut, New Haven

    Mark S. Gold MD (senior medical student and National Institute of Mental Health trainee)

  3. Department of Psychiatry, University of Florida College of Medicine, USA

    Mark S. Gold MD (senior medical student and National Institute of Mental Health trainee) & Janice R. Gold MEd (Associate)

Authors
  1. Mark S. Gold MD
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  2. Janice R. Gold MEd
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Additional information

This project was sponsored in part by an NIMH Student Fellowship. The authors wish to thank Steven Zornetzer, PhD, and Kenneth M. Heilman, MD, for their assistance, guidance, and willingness to unselfishly share their perspective and insights. The authors also thank Paul L. Adams, MD, for his support and inspiration.

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Gold, M.S., Gold, J.R. Autism and attention: Theoretical considerations and a pilot study using set reaction time. Child Psych Hum Dev 6, 68–80 (1975). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF01438301

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