Putative Brain Networks Underlying Repetitive Negative Thinking and Comorbid Internalizing Problems in Autism.
Catherine A Burrows1, Kiara R Timpano1, Lucina Q Uddin1,2
1Department of Psychology, University of Miami, Coral Gables FL.
Summary
High-functioning individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) often experience depression and anxiety. Repetitive negative thinking (RNT) may explain this link, driven by self-referential processing and cognitive inflexibility.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Psychiatry
- Cognitive Science
Background:
- Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is frequently comorbid with internalizing problems like depression and anxiety.
- Repetitive negative thinking (RNT) is a transdiagnostic vulnerability factor potentially linking ASD with internalizing symptoms.
Purpose of the Study:
- To propose a model explaining the high rates of internalizing problems in ASD.
- To investigate the roles of self-referential processing, cognitive inflexibility, and RNT in ASD.
- To explore neurobiological underpinnings involving the default mode network and salience network.
Main Methods:
- Literature review and synthesis of existing research.
- Theoretical modeling of cognitive and neural mechanisms.
- Examination of interactions within and between large-scale brain networks.
Main Results:
- Self-referential processing and cognitive inflexibility may interact to increase RNT risk in ASD.
- RNT is proposed as a key factor mediating internalizing problems in ASD.
- Interactions within the default mode and salience networks may underlie RNT in ASD.
Conclusions:
- Understanding RNT is crucial for explaining internalizing problems in ASD.
- Targeting cognitive flexibility and RNT may offer therapeutic benefits for comorbid conditions in ASD.
- Further research is needed to address heterogeneity and refine treatment strategies.
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