Biological 1) Amygdala Dysfunction

Question 1

Amygdala Development

Answer 1

Amygdala develops differently in children with ASD.
From 2, there is a larger than normal growth in amygdala volume.
This growth in volume occurs earlier in children with ASD and this may result in abnormalities in the neural organisation and functioning.

Question 2

Nordahl et al.

Answer 2

ASD children have an amygdala that is larger by around 6-9%.

Question 3

Baron-Cohen et al.

Answer 3

Abnormal development of the amygdala in childhood is a major cause of the main social ad behavioural deficits in ASD.

Question 4

Support from Clinical Studies

Answer 4

Some investigated people who have damaged one or both of their amygdala.
Daniel Kennedy - women SM - lost functioning of both amygdala; found she was comfortable with personal space distances that the controls found uncomfortable.
Supports amygdala theory as SM showed several impairment that are similar to those in ASD.

Question 5

Inconsistent Findings

Answer 5

Studies into the link between amygdala volume and ASD have produced differing outcomes.
Howard et al. showed increased volume.
Herbert et al. reports smaller amygdala volume.
Meaning the precise role of the amygdala is unclear and casts doubt of validity.

Question 6

Danger of Over Simplification

Answer 6

No reliable evidence that the amygdala is disproportionately more dysfunctional that other brain structures.
Paul et al. studied 2 women with damaged amygdala’s. They showed impaired social behaviour, but not to the degree of ASD.
Amygdala theory alone isn’t enough to account for all behaviour deficits.