Neural Markers of Cognitive Flexibility Deficit in Autism Spectrum Condition

Cognitive flexibility deficits are commonly observed in individuals with Autism Spectrum Conditions (ASC), referring to difficulties in flexibly shifting attention between tasks or stimuli. This thesis examines the neural correlates associated with attention switching deficits in ASC. The examination reveals a complex interplay of frontal, parietal, limbic, and temporal regions in ASC. Findings from studies by Damasio, Schmitz, Shafritz, Taylor, Yerys, Dirks, and Uddin collectively implicate specific brain regions and highlight compensatory mechanisms and altered developmental trajectories. There is no convergence amongst the said studies on any specific regions of the brain or whether autistic individuals have a hyper or hypo activation of the frontal and parietal brain regions. Critical assessment of the topic identifies concerns about the construct and ecological validity of current measures, emphasizing the need for more naturalistic assessments. And the limitation of the existing studies due to their focus on fMRI and MEG techniques, which does not shed light on the brain networks and connections in regard to Cognitive Flexibility. The thesis underscores the broader significance of studying ASC for understanding neurodiversity and suggests avenues for refining research in this behaviorally significant aspect of autism.

Attention switching deficits are commonly observed in individuals with Autism Spectrum Conditions (ASC), referring to difficulties in flexibly shifting attention between tasks or stimuli. This thesis examines the neural correlates associated with attention switching deficits in ASC. The examination reveals a complex interplay of frontal, parietal, limbic, and temporal regions in ASC. Findings from studies by Damasio, Schmitz, Shafritz, Taylor, Yerys, Dirks, and Uddin collectively implicate specific brain regions and highlight compensatory mechanisms and altered developmental trajectories. There is no convergence amongst the said studies on any specific regions of the brain or whether autistic individuals have a hyper or hypo activation of the frontal and parietal brain regions. Critical assessment of the topic identifies concerns about the construct and ecological validity of current measures, emphasizing the need for more naturalistic assessments. And the limitation of the existing studies due to their focus on fMRI and MEG techniques, which does not shed light on the brain networks and connections in regard to Cognitive Flexibility. The thesis underscores the broader significance of studying ASC for understanding neurodiversity and suggests avenues for refining research in this behaviorally significant aspect of autism.