Disorders Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Disorders - Research Paper Example ebilitating effects rather than for those which are defined through sociological structures that the effects provide a disruption rather than a complete barrier to leading a high quality life. The unfortunate fact about autism at this time is that there is no definitive cause for the condition. With no cause, there is no true medical treatment through pharmaceuticals. There are a series of mainstream theories on the causes of autism that are being researched in order to help to get closer to a cure or prevention of the condition. One of the theories revolves around the introduction of toxic chemicals into the system of the mother while the child is within her womb. The types of chemicals that could be responsible could be as mundane as those found in cleaning products or as seemingly benign as those found in toys, food, or water through heavy metals. These effects could be developed in the womb, or this is some suggestion that they are developed right after birth during the first year.1 There have not been any definitive answers, however, as to whether environmental chemicals conclusively cause autism. Another possible cause of the condition might be a genetic issue. There are many genetic disorders that can be detected through testing, but thus far a genetic connection between children with autistic traits has not been found. While there is no foundation as yet for this theory, the concept that genetics is the primary cause of autism is still considered the most likely causal candidate.2 Other possible causes include mitochondrial problems, prenatal and birth factors, neurological structure anomalies, autoimmune issues, or a neurobiological disorder. One of the biggest problems with the study of autism is that for most of history it was considered a psychiatric problem and was treated as a mental disorder rather than a biological condition. Therefore, the research is relatively new and has not reached its zenith of discovery. The condition was first considered