Developmental Group

Description of Research
Our aim is to investigate how certain cognitive processes develop in typically developing individuals and in developmental disorders, in particular autism spectrum disorder. One main focus of our research is the development of social cognitive processes during adolescence. Another focus is how dysfunction in specific neurocognitive cognitive mechanisms can produce the symptoms of autism.

Our research is based on the assumption that in developmental disorders a critical neurocognitive mechanism is malfunctioning and our work has attempted to identify which brain systems may be involved. A mechanism that normally facilitates social learning and insight and is based on medial prefrontal and superior temporal regions is our candidate to explain the impairments in social communication that are found in autism spectrum disorders.

To address these issues of development and disorder, and to establish mind-brain mappings, we are using the converging techniques of cognitive experimental studies, neuropsychological investigations, and neuroimaging.

Please click the links below to find out about the group's research.