Childhood autism is a disorder characterized by impaired reciprocal social interactions, abnormalities in verbal and nonverbal communication, poor imaginative activity, and a restricted range of activities and interests. The causes of autism are unknown, but various approaches attempt to explain the neurobiological causes of this syndrome. Recently, the theory of a dysfunction of the mirror neuron system (ENS) has been studied.
The ENS is a neuronal complex, originally described in monkeys and also found in humans, that is related to our movements and responds specifically to the movements and movement intentions of other subjects. This system is also believed to underlie imitation processes and forms of imitative learning. It is also thought to be involved in language acquisition, emotional expression, understanding what happens to others, and empathy. Because these functions are altered in children with autism, it is believed that there is a dysfunction of the ENS in autistic individuals that could explain the symptoms observed in children with autism.
JO Cornelio-Nieto
Fountain: Journal of Neurology_ Childhood autism and mirror neurons.