ERIC Number: EJ1037707
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2013-Nov
Pages: 13
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-0162-3257
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Available Date: N/A
A Critical Review of the Research on the Extreme Male Brain Theory and Digit Ratio (2D:4D)
Teatero, Missy L.; Netley, Charles
Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders, v43 n11 p2664-2676 Nov 2013
Boys are more likely than girls to be diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The extreme male brain (EMB) theory of ASD suggests that fetal testosterone (FT) exposure may underlie sex differences in autistic traits. A link between the organizational effects of FT on the brain and ASD is often drawn based on research using digit ratio (2D:4D), a putative biomarker, without a full survey of the findings. This paper critically and quantitatively reviews the research on the relationship between 2D:4D and ASD as well as autism spectrum, empathizing, and systemizing measures in neurotypical populations. Overall, there is some support for the EMB theory in all four areas, particularly the 2D:4D-ASD relationship. Recommendations for future research are provided.
Descriptors: Brain, Literature Reviews, Meta Analysis, Males, Pervasive Developmental Disorders, Prenatal Influences, Empathy, Neuropsychology, Neurological Organization, Statistical Analysis, Correlation, Learning Theories, Schematic Studies
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Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Evaluative; Information Analyses
Education Level: N/A
Audience: N/A
Language: English
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