Much controversy and confusion remains about the differences between high functioning autism and Asperger's syndrome. As the authors described, there are many areas of overlap as well as differences between the original Asperger's proposal and autism.

Regular readers of this blog will know that I subscribe to the incentive salience theory of doapmaine propounded by Berridge et al. As per this theory dopamine mediates the salience of an internal/ external stimulus and endows and activates the motivational salience related to that stimulus. In simple words the mesolimbic dopamine systems serves to identify the importance of a stimulus to us- be it aversive or pleasurable.

Two scientists, drawing on their own powers of observation and a creative reading of recent genetic findings, have published a sweeping theory of brain development that would change the way mental disorders like autism and schizophrenia are understood.

Autism and Schizophrenia polarity

Autistic savant Daniel Tammet's first book, "Born On A Blue Day" was an international best-seller as an engaging autobiographical overview of his fascinating life and talents. His new book, "Embracing The Wide Sky" is a more scientific look at the way his mind works, and provocatively covers a range of cognitive issues.

Are the current recognized categories (Autism, Asperger's, and PDD-NOS) the most comprehensive, accurate, relevant, and useful subtypes?