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Research

An investigation of a novel broad autism phenotype: increased facial masculinity among parents of children on the autism spectrum

The broad autism phenotype commonly refers to sub-clinical levels of autistic-like behaviour and cognition presented in biological relatives of autistic people. In a recent study, we reported findings suggesting that the broad autism phenotype may also be expressed in facial morphology, specifically increased facial masculinity.

Research

Eye Gaze in Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Review of Neural Evidence for the Eye Avoidance Hypothesis

Reduced eye contact early in life may play a role in the developmental pathways that culminate in a diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder. However, there are contradictory theories regarding the neural mechanisms involved. According to the amygdala theory of autism, reduced eye contact results from a hypoactive amygdala that fails to flag eyes as salient. However, the eye avoidance hypothesis proposes the opposite-that amygdala hyperactivity causes eye avoidance. This review evaluated studies that measured the relationship between eye gaze and activity in the 'social brain' when viewing facial stimuli.

Research

A longitudinal examination of perinatal testosterone, estradiol and vitamin D as predictors of handedness outcomes in childhood and adolescence

The developmental origins of handedness remain elusive, though very early emergence suggests individual differences manifesting in utero could play an important role. Prenatal testosterone and Vitamin D exposure are considered, yet findings and interpretations remain equivocal.

Research

Anesthetic Exposure During Childhood and Neurodevelopmental Outcomes: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

Clinical studies of neurodevelopmental outcomes after anesthetic exposure have evaluated a range of outcomes with mixed results.

News & Events

Reading between the lines: making book sharing fun

In this blog, Speech Pathologist Genevieve Wilmot discusses the many benefits of book sharing and how it can promote connection and social and communication development.

News & Events

What is SCERTS?

In this blog, Senior Speech Pathologist Sally Grauaug and Speech Pathology Clinical Lead Aria May discuss the model SCERTS and how it can support your child's communication level.

News & Events

Clinic update - December 2023

There is lots of news to report from the clinic including holiday shutdown dates, appointment scheduling, staff updates, changes to creche, and service availability.

News & Events

Want to be part of shaping our research and services?

CliniKids is committed to involving consumers and the community in all aspects of our research and service delivery. One way we do this is by providing the opportunity for consumers and community members to contribute through our community reference groups.

TOTS Study

Learn more about the TOTS Study at CliniKids

News & Events

How much is the right amount of therapy?

In this blog, CliniKids Director Professor Andrew Whitehouse and Research Development Manager Sarah Pillar explore one of the most common questions when it comes to support for autistic children - how much is the right amount of therapy?