It is widely recognized that people with autism spectrum disorder display deficits in communication and social behavior. It is perhaps less often noted that in some areas, their abilities may surpass those of people without autism spectrum disorder. Draw off what you have learned to support this statement. Very generally, how do the enhanced abilities of those with autism spectrum disorder lend credence to an evolutionary approach to psychopathology?

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

people with autism spectrum disorder may show deficits in empathizing but superior abilities to systemize—that is, to understand objects or events with respect to their underlying structures, rules, or patterns. Additionally, some 10% of individuals with ASD show special abilities in art, music, calculation, or memory. This is called savant syndrome. An evolutionary perspective on psychopathology encourages scientists to consider the adaptive advantage of mental disorders. The enhanced abilities of those with ASD might contribute to scientific and artistic achievement and advances. Perhaps the species’ survival is aided by the existence of some people who are less engaged and involved in everyday social concerns and more attuned to understanding the more abstract rules, patterns, regularities, and structures underlying the world around us. These individuals may contribute disproportionately, for example, to the scientific progress that has more than doubled the human life expectancy.
Learning Objective: 5.5 Discuss the causes and treatment of autism spectrum disorders.
Cognitive Domain: Analysis
Answer Location: Special Talents