Mood disorders in high-functioning autism: The importance of alexithymia and emotional regulation

Mood disorders in high-functioning autism: The importance of alexithymia and emotional regulation

Abstract
Individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) often have co-morbid anxiety and depression.
Alexithymia and emotion regulation difficulties are commonly seen in individuals with ASD and
in mood disorders. We constructed a model hypothesizing a relationship between alexithymia
and emotional regulation that would mediate the relationship between autistic features and
anxiety/depression symptom severity. We collected data about emotional regulation,
alexithymia, autistic symptoms and depression/anxiety in a sample of 64 adults with ASD. We
constructed two serial multiple mediator models, using autistic features as the independent
variable and anxiety/depression symptoms as outcome variables. The serial relationship between
alexithymia and emotional regulation mediated associations between autistic features and
depression and anxiety, separately. The findings suggest that targeting alexithymia may benefit
therapies designed to alleviate mood disorders in ASD.

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The MMR Vaccine and Autism

The MMR Vaccine and Autism

Abstract
Autism is a developmental disability that can cause significant social, communication, and behavioral challenges. A report published in 1998, but subsequently retracted by the journal, suggested that measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine causes autism. However, autism is a neurodevelopmental condition that has a strong genetic component with genesis before one year of age, when MMR vaccine is typically administered. Several epidemiologic studies have not found an association between MMR vaccination and autism, including a study that found that MMR vaccine was not associated with an increased risk of autism even among high-risk children whose older siblings had autism. Despite strong evidence of its safety, some parents are still hesitant to accept MMR vaccination of their children. Decreasing acceptance of MMR vaccination has led to outbreaks or resurgence of measles. Health-care providers have a vital role in maintaining confidence in vaccination and preventing suffering, disability, and death from measles and other vaccine-preventable diseases.

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