Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 26, 2026

Probing the Brain in Autism Using fMRI and Diffusion Tensor Imaging
Published on: September 12, 2011
Pharmacological interventions in autism: theoretical and practical issues
1Child Study Center, Yale University, P.O. Box 207900, New Haven, CT 06520, USA. fred.volkmar@yale.edu
Abstract:
Focused on issues of drug treatment in relation to autism. Pharmacological treatment studies in autism are complicated by various factors including a tremendous range of syndrome expression, a lack of robust animal models of the disorder, and various methodological problems. Theories have tended to follow treatments, and various neurochemical systems have been the focus of study. Neurochemical systems potentially implicated include those involving dopamine, norepinephrine, serotonin, and neuropeptides. The dopaminergic system has been the most extensively studied. Treatments developed are effective relative to certain disabling symptoms but "core" problems (e.g., in social relatedness and communication) appear less responsive to medications. The development of new approaches to assessment, including integration of behavioral and pharmacological approaches, is an important research priority.
Related Concept Videos
Psychosis: Goals of Pharmacotherapy
Behavior Modification
A real-world application of operant conditioning principles is applied...
Operant Conditioning Intervention
In operant conditioning, behaviors that are...
Modeling in Therapy
Participant Modeling
Participant modeling involves therapists demonstrating calm and effective behaviors in situations...
Drug Therapy
Antianxiety Medications
Autism Spectrum Disorder
These core symptoms manifest differently among individuals, ranging from mild to severe. The disorder's complexity extends beyond its clinical presentation, encompassing a diverse range of biological, cognitive, and sociocultural influences.

