Mindblown: a blog about philosophy.

Coexisting peacefully: Changes in maternal immune cells (blue) enable a pregnant woman to tolerate the presence of fetal cells (purple) that have a different genetic makeup. A new resource maps the cells of the human placenta and uterus between 6 and 20 weeks of pregnancy, giving an unparalleled look at how fetal cells invade the…

The internet is a vast ocean of knowledge and entertainment that, when used wisely, can greatly benefit our children. For children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), the internet can offer opportunities to enhance their learning experiences and build vital skills. However, like any powerful tool, it also holds potential risks. This becomes even more critical…

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental condition that affects communication, behavior, and social interaction in a neurotypical world. While there is a lot to be said about what defines neurotypical behaviors as a norm, there is no doubt that individuals with ASD experience challenges when it comes to understanding and expressing emotions. Many…

In the ever-evolving battle with trying to understand the multiple facets of autism, researchers have now found a way to diagnose which autistic children will have speech and social development problems. In a study published in the journal Neuron, scientists conducted research over an eight-year period to determine if an early diagnosis could be made…

Twenty years ago, when Laura Kasbar‘s boy-girl twins were three years old, both were diagnosed with autism: Her daughter’s case was on the moderate end of the spectrum, while her son’s was “one of the most severe you could have,” Kasbar says. Both children immediately began therapy to try to teach them verbal skills. While…

In 2020, Amy Wetherby became a grandmother. Like many doting grandparents, she treasured every update about and photo of her granddaughter, even as the COVID-19 pandemic made in-person visits impossible. The baby girl was beautiful, bright eyed and smiley — but she slept poorly and had trouble nursing. At 6 months, she showed slight motor…

Here are 15 signs you could be autistic even if you’re 100% self-sufficient and don’t need help living independently. You can still be autistic even if you aren’t disabled by this condition. I’m a fiercely independent person who finds the idea — of depending on other people for support with living my life — to…

The Netherlands is embracing a new way of treating those with autism and other intellectual disabilities, and it’s quite disturbing. In fact, stray dogs are treated better. Researchers found that certain disabled individuals have been EUTHANIZED in recent years. A fact so shocking, it literally gives me a stomach ache to just type the words.…

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a complex neurological condition that affects 1 in 54 children in the United States, as reported by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). For parents of children with ASD, keeping pace with the latest developments and to stay up-to-date with autism research can be challenging but vital. The…

Navigating the world of autism as a parent is like venturing into an unfamiliar landscape. The journey is filled with numerous paths, challenges, and triumphs. One of the most promising paths on this journey is Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy, a leading-edge approach to helping children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). This therapy uses scientifically…