A Developmental Social Neuroscience Perspective on Infant Autism Interventions
Geraldine Dawson1, Amber D Rieder1,2, Mark H Johnson3,4
1Duke Center for Autism and Brain Development, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, United States.
Annual Review of Developmental Psychology
|June 16, 2025
Summary
Early autism interventions for infants under 12 months can shape brain development. Enhancing infant-environment fit is key to improving outcomes and well-being in autism.
Area of Science:
- Developmental neuroscience
- Clinical psychology
- Autism research
Background:
- Early identification of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) relies on recognizing behavioral precursors and biomarkers.
- Interventions during infancy hold potential to modify neurodevelopmental trajectories in autism.
Purpose of the Study:
- To integrate neuroscience and clinical insights for designing infant autism interventions.
- To explore how developmental social neuroscience theories inform therapeutic strategies.
- To propose enhancing infant-environment fit for improved child outcomes.
Main Methods:
- Review of studies on autism behavioral precursors and neural correlates in infants (≤12 months).
- Analysis of clinical trials evaluating infant autism intervention efficacy.
- Integration of developmental social neuroscience theories with intervention strategies.
Main Results:
- Knowledge of infant brain and behavioral development can guide autism intervention design.
- Contemporary theories highlight the importance of infant-environment interaction.
- Evidence suggests early interventions can influence developmental pathways.
Conclusions:
- Future research should incorporate brain-based measures for personalized interventions.
- Enhancing infant-environment fit is a promising approach for autism intervention.
- Ethical considerations are crucial in early autism intervention research.
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