As yet, we do not have all the answers as to how and why autism occurs. However, studies generally show that certain factors cause brain damage, which may cause ASD.

There is general agreement among researchers that one or more biological causes may lead to autism. In one model, it is useful to think that several medical conditions may 'predispose' a child to autism. They may not always cause autism. However, in the case of autism, these factors (genetic abnormalities, birth trauma, etc.) are thought to have followed one shared final common pathway, in which they caused damage of specific region(s) of the brain where social, communicative and imaginative development is controlled. This then leads to the manifestation of autistic spectrum disorders.

Other physical and mental handicaps may occur in association as well, perhaps because the damage from these medical causes also disrupt systems in the brain that control physical and intellectual development. Scientists are still researching precisely which part of the brain is responsible for autism, but it is no longer doubted that brain abnormalities occur in autism.

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