Understanding Sensory-Motor Disorders in Autism Spectrum Disorders by Extending Hebbian Theory: Formation of a Rigid-Autonomous Phase Sequence (RAPS)

Abstract

Autism spectrum disorder is a neuropsychiatric disorder characterized by 1) persistent deficits in social communication and social interaction; and 2) restricted, repetitive patterns of behavior, interests, or activities. The symptoms invariably appear early in development and cause significant impairment in social, occupational, and other important functions. Various abnormalities in the genetic, neurological, and endocrine systems of patients with autism spectrum disorder have been reported as the etiology; however, no clear factor leading to the onset of the disease has been identified. Additionally, higher-order cognitive dysfunctions, which is represented by a lack of theory of mind, sensorimotor disorders, and memory-related disorders (e.g., flashbacks), have been reported in recent years, but no theoretical framework has been proposed to explain these behavioral abnormalities. In this study, we extended Hebb’s theory in biopsychology to provide a theoretical framework that comprehensively explains the various behavioral abnormalities observed in autism spectrum disorder. Specifically, we proposed that a wide range of symptoms in autism spectrum disorder may be produced by the easy formation of rigid-autonomous phase sequences (RAPS) in the brain. Through the theory of RAPS formation, we explained a biopsychological mechanism that is a target for the treatment of autism spectrum disorders.