How autism symptoms could develop at the neuron level: an information management perspective

Abstract

Today's research into mental conditions and disorders such as autism, ADHD and dyslexia appears to be focused on identifying dysfunctions. Given the slow speed at which neurons fire and connectivity challenges between different parts of the brain, there is another possibility: capacity bottlenecks. Capacity bottlenecks are a common phenomenon. For an architect, avoiding bottlenecks is a fundamental requirement for the whole to function flawlessly - whether one is designing a skyscraper, a new airport, a highway or a computer. Small disturbances can create bottlenecks in a system that works well otherwise. Next to this, it appears certain treatments for mental conditions use techniques that are the same as those used to remove capacity bottlenecks in large computers. Overall, it is hard to see why capacity bottlenecks would not play an important role in causing mental conditions and disorders. If confirmed, this possibility implies capacity management techniques should provide a strong basis for the development of new treatments. ?? 2008 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.